longest trek in world

10 of the World’s Longest Hiking Trails

By lucie grace | mar 30, 2022, 4:55 pm edt.

The Pacific Crest Trail is just one of the world’s longest treks.

Young explorers and retirees alike are donning sturdy boots and reconnecting with the great outdoors on long trails all over the world. Thru-hiking is a long-distance, continuous trek that usually—unless you’re a marathon runner—takes months at a time. Thru-hikers took on the Appalachian Trail in the United States in the late 1940s, and the pastime only continued to gain popularity in recent decades. Here are 10 of the world's longest trails, some of which are multi-use for hikers, cyclists, and equestrians. Most of these epic trails are a compilation of long-established favorites—and would require prior training and careful preparation .

1. The Great Trail, Canada (14,912 miles/24,000 kilometers)

The Great Trail, Canada (formerly known as the Trans Canada Trail) links hundreds of local pathways across the width of the county. The route, which was first imagined in 1992, weaves its way through 13 provinces and territories , from St. John’s in Newfoundland all the way to Vancouver, British Columbia, with a northward loop including the Yukon. The multi-use trail officially opened in 2017 and has been praised for its goals of connecting communities and incorporating disused railway lines by converting them to paths. It has faced some criticism , though, as currently only 30 percent of the trail is off-road.

2. The American Discovery Trail (6800 miles/10,944 kilometers)

The American Discovery Trail is the country’s first and longest non-motorized coast-to-coast trail. It takes hikers, horseback riders, and skiers from the Atlantic to the Pacific, crossing through Delaware, Maryland, West Virginia, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Kentucky, Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, Kansas, Colorado, Utah, and Nevada before reaching California. The trail opened ceremonially in 2000, though the first folks to finish it were power-walking couple Ken and Marcia Powers (also known as GottaWalk), who completed 5000 miles coast-to-coast in October 2005. The full loop, including both parallel possible routes—the trail splits into two alternate paths before joining again—was first conquered by hiker Mike “Lion King” Daniel, who crushed all 6800 miles in November 2008.

3. E1 European Long Distance Path (4960 miles/7980 kilometers)

The E1 is the longest of the 12 European Long Distance Paths overseen by the European Ramblers Association . It’s a vertical affair: The trek starts in the upper reaches of Norway and finishes in Sicily, Italy. The trail isn’t sign-posted in upper Norway, in consideration of the indigenous Sami people, but is marked with cairns from Nordkapp southward. After Norway, Finland, and Sweden, the path continues into Denmark (thanks to a short ferry ride). It then heads down to Germany before traversing Switzerland and ending with a hike the length of Italy.

4. The Grand Italian Trail (4455 miles/7170 kilometers)

If you like your long distance hikes pasta -fueled, this is the one for you. The Grand Italian Trail, or Sentiero Italia , has an accompanying food blog that suggests the local fare for the regions you’ll pass through, making sure you don’t miss the best flavors and natural delicacies available along the way. You'll need all that grub to fuel up as you go: This trail is predominantly mountainous, winding through the whole length of the Alpine Arc and the entire Apennine Chain before taking in Sicily and ending in Sardinia. The trail was first imagined in 1983. The earliest hikers to complete the full trek finished it in 1995 and again in 1999, but interest in the feat seemed to lose traction in recent years. The organization behind the trail has launched a free online guide, available in English and Italian.

5. The Continental Divide Trail (3100 miles/5000 kilometers)

This challenging five-month-long trail slices through the U.S. vertically, from Montana on the northernmost border to New Mexico in the south. The CDT was designated a National Scenic Trail in 1978, and it’s known for its rugged, unfinished stretches— the coalition that maintains the CDT calls it “a living museum of the American West.” It’s a proper hiking trail, as the rough terrain is unsuitable for mountain bikers and a challenge for horseback riders. As of 1995, only 15 people had officially completed the trail; now, around 150 people per year attempt to finish it. The CDT is one of three American trails that make up the “ Triple Crown of Hiking ,” alongside the Pacific Crest Trail and the Appalachian Trail.

6. The Great Himalayan Trail (2800 miles/4585 kilometers)

If the strenuous treks of Nepal aren’t challenging enough, the yet-to-be completed Great Himalayan Trail could be for you. The proposed route stretches the entire length of the Himalayan mountain range, surmounting Pakistan, India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet. The hardcore terrain and extremely high altitudes are not for the faint-hearted: The highest point of the trek at the Sherpani Col Pass in Nepal clocks in at a terrifying 20,210 feet (6160 meters) above sea level. If this “extreme route” sounds too treacherous, there’s also a proposed lower trail known as the “cultural route” that works its way through mid-range hills and villages.

7. Hokkaido Nature Trail (2848 miles/4585 kilometers)

The longest of Japan’s nature trails takes you on a loop of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of the Japanese archipelago. While the majority of the country’s nature trails were designated by the government in 1970, this mega-hike was first imagined in 2003. It combines the trails of Hokkaido into one huge loop. There’s still work to be done, with some stretches yet to be linked, but it’s suggested this trek would take avid walkers 230 days to complete.

8. England Coast Path (2795 miles/4500 kilometers)

This ambitious project has been in the works since 2014. It will follow all of England’s coastline to become the world’s longest coastal trail. The route, which was inspired by the success of the Wales Coast Path, traverses stretches of cliffs, moors, beaches, harbors, marshes, and farmland. It was due to open in 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic delayed those plans. Long stretches of the Coast Path are open, however, and its governing agency, Natural England , is in consultation with local residents along the final stretches.

9. Pacific Crest Trail (2653 miles / 4270 kilometers)

This hiking trail stretches the length of the U.S.’s Pacific coast. It takes approximately six months to complete on one continuous thru-hike. The PCT was first conceived in the 1930s, and has been maintained and managed by the Pacific Crest Trail Association since 1977. It was made famous in recent years by Reece Witherspoon in her 2014 movie Wild , a feature film based on the memoirs of writer Cheryl Strayed. Consequently, it’s a popular hike and not the solitary affair you'll see in the movie. The PCT is celebrated as one of the country’s most scenic hiking trails, adding to its allure.

10. Te Araroa (1894 miles / 3000 kilometers)

Te Araroa (meaning The Long Pathway) is a picturesque but challenging trail. It spans the entire length of New Zealand—both the North and South Island. The Te Araroa Trust maintains the pathway, which was officially opened on December 3, 2011. Thru-hiking Te Araroa takes approximately six months. Trekkers can stay in the network of huts managed by New Zealand’s Department of Conservation, renting huts on a night-by-night basis or applying for a six-month pass. The record holder for completing the trail in the shortest time is British marathon runner Jez Bragg, who finished it in 53 days in 2013.

30 Longest Hiking Trails in the World, Ranked

30 of the longest hiking trails in the world.

A walk in the woods gives you fresh air, time away from electronics and a chance to take in scenic vistas while clearing your mind.

Now, take that day hike, amplify it by weeks and months, and imagine the serenity. Whether you are a committed long-haul trekker or just want to explore a country by foot — be it day hikes, week-long forays or a full-month journey — here are 30 of the longest hiking trails in the world for you to consider.

30. Jordan Trail

Length: 400 miles

Location: Jordan

Hike through 52 villages and towns and follow in the footsteps of those who have walked the same paths since the earliest B.C. centuries on the Jordan Trail .

You'll uncover the culture of the country on this long-distance trail following the length of Jordan from the north's Um Qais to the south's Aqaba.

29. Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Historical Trail

Length: 500 miles

Location: Africa

The longest trail found in Africa is named for Victorian explorers. With stops along the Nile River and Lake Albert, the trail begins in South Sudan and travels through Uganda.

The Baker Historical Trail , created in 2013, follows the route the Bakers traveled on expeditions taken during the mid-1800s, giving new explorers a chance to take in the much unchanged beauty of the land.

Length: 538 miles

Location: France

Roam through the French Pyrenees on the GR 10, which provides stunning views of various regions of France from the Mediterranean to the Bay of Biscay on the Atlantic Coast along the border of Spain.

Note: The Pyrenees are no joke; this is a challenging trek with elevations above 3,400 feet.

27. Bruce Trail

Length: 550 miles

Location: Canada

The oldest walking trail in Canada continues to wow hikers who follow the Ontario path past some of the province's most notable tracts of land, including Niagara's Biosphere Reserve.

The Bruce Trail began in the 1960s and is named for the Bruce Peninsula that juts into Lake Huron and Georgian Bay.

26. Transmantiqueira Trail

Length: 620 miles

Location: Brazil

This Brazilian trail system interconnects to create a long trail through 39 different municipalities.

The Transmantiqueira Trail also brings you through the Serra da Mantiqueira in 30 protected areas of Brazil's vast ecosystems.

25. Michinoku Coastal Trail

Length: 621 miles

Location: Japan

Opened in 2019, this coastal route is actually a portion of the much-larger Tohoku Nature Trail (more on it later). Located in the northern region of Japan, this route follows along the Pacific Ocean.

The Michinoku Coastal Trail begins in Hachinohe City in Aomori Prefecture and ends in Soma City in Fukushima Prefecture in an area that was rebuilt after the devastating earthquake and tsunami hit in 2011.

24. Bibbulmun Track

Length: 623 miles

Location: Australia

For a walkabout in Australia, the longest trail Down Under is Bibbulmun Track . This long-distancer will take you from the Perth hills of northwestern Australia to the southern coast.

The track will take you past the coastal heathlands, towering forests and granite boulders. But there are no day-trek portions — this is an all or nothing linear hike.

23. South West Coast Path

Length: 630

Location: England

The longest trail in England, the South West Coast Path national trail provides views of Cornwall, Dorset, Somerset and Devon, and the gorgeous Jurassic Coast.

Designated in 1978, the salty air and dramatic scenery begins in Minehead and runs along the coastline to Poole Harbour.

22. Israel National Trail

Length: 683 miles

Location: Israel

The Israel National Trail ( Shvil Yisrael in Hebrew) travels across the small country from north to south and was inspired by a hiker who completed the Appalachian Trail.

Begin near the Lebanon border at Kibbutz Dan, then travel along the Mediterranean coastline and through central Israel on the way to the Gulf of Aqaba, where the trail ends in Eilat.

21. TransPanama Trail

Length: 700 miles

Location: Panama

In 2011, one man set off to hike across Panama, creating a new trail that includes 48 miles of canoeing. His route is now the TransPanama Trail for those brave enough to push through the same jungle journey.

The trail runs the entire length of the country from Costa Rica to Colombia and visits both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea.

20. National Blue Trail

Length: 701 miles

Location: Hungary

Europe's oldest recreational long trail was designated in 1938 as Kektura . Now dubbed the National Blue Trail, the trek stretches between Irottko Moutain on the border of Austria to the border of Slovakia, where it ends in the village of Hollohaz.

Peaks along this moderate trail don't go above 3,400 feet, making it a less-strenuous walking adventure.

19. Skåneleden

Length: 780 miles

Location: Sweden

In Southern Sweden, there's a hiking trail that takes trekkers deep into the countryside and into the forests of Skåne.

The Skåneleden trail is divided into five different trails and passes castles and palaces along the routes.

18. Wales Coast Path

Length: 870 miles

Location: Wales

Hikers in Wales can enjoy the entire length of the country's coastline on the Wales Coast Path , dedicated in 2012.

Known as Llwybr Arfordir Cymru in Welsh, the trail features seven distinct areas, beginning in Chester in the north to Chepstow in the south.

17. Tokai Nature Trail

Length: 1,054 miles

The first of several 1,000-plus-mile trails found in Japan, the Tokai Nature Trail travels across 11 prefectures from Tokyo to Osaka.

The popular trail was introduced in the 1970s, and hikers will see waterfalls, cherry trees and views of Mount Fuji along the trek.

16. Great Himalaya Trail

Length: 1,056 miles

Location: Nepal

You won't have to climb Mount Everest to hike the Himalayas. The Great Himalaya Trail will take you around the towering mountain range.

The trail is divided into 10 sections and passes through a variety of environments including jungles and forests.

15. Greater Patagonian Trail

Length: 1,300 miles

Location: Chile

This new and difficult trail in the Earth's southern reaches passes through the Andes Mountains and Patagonia. It's inspired by a German explorer who has been working on the trail for decades.

Still under construction, by the time the Greater Patagonian Trail is complete, it will cover 1,900 miles and be the 10th longest trail in the world.

14. Sultans Trail

Length: 1,400 miles

Location: Europe

The Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Suleiman the Magnificent, marched from Istanbul to Vienna during the 16th century. His route remains today as a path for peace.

The Sultans Trail travels through Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia and Bulgaria between Austria and Turkey and can also be enjoyed by bike.

13. Camino de Santiago de Compostella

Length: 1,570

Location: Spain

The Way of St. James , or simply The Way, is one of the world's oldest pilgrimage routes. The route begins in the mountains of southwestern France and travels across northern Spain to the tomb of St. James in Santiago.

Additional routes from other Spanish regions also arrive in Santiago, and those who hike along the way can collect stamps in various stops to present at the church in Santiago for a completion certificate.

12. Via Alpina

Length: 1,615 miles

Alpine countries banded together in 2000 to intertwine their trails, creating Via Alpina with five international trails that pass through eight countries.

The European Alps provide the setting in heights ranging from 0 to nearly 10,000 feet. There are 342 stages of the trail to discover and break into smaller hikes.

11. Via Francigena

Length: 1,894 miles

Via Francigena was the historic route for pilgrims of Europe to reach the Eternal City of Rome.

In existence since the 900s, the trail connected travelers from Britain, France, Switzerland and Italy to the Pope.

10. Te Araroa

Location: New Zealand

New Zealand's own cross-country trail covers both of the two main islands.

Opened in 2011, the Te Araroa trail runs from Cape Regina in the north to Bluff in the south passing through forests, cities, beaches and volcanoes.

9. Appalachian Trail

Length: 2,200 miles

Location: United States

Many wrongfully assume that the famous Appalachian Trail is the world's longest hiking trail. While incorrect, it does make it into the top 10.

Beginning in the mountains of North Georgia, the Appalachians run all the way up to Bald Mountain Pond in Maine. Dedicated hikers spend months making their way along its often-rocky paths.

8. Chubu Hokuriku Nature Trail

Length: 2,504 miles

Running along the coastline of the Japanese Sea is the Chubu Hokuriku Nature Trail found in central Japan.

Entirely renovated by 2001, it is considered an easy nature trail to hike, with views of the mountains and sea.

7. Pacific Crest Trail

Length: 2,653 miles

The East Coast has its Appalachian Trail, but on the West Coast, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is longer.

Spanning from Mexico to Canada, the PCT covers California, Oregon and Washington, passing through the Sierra Nevada and Cascade mountain ranges. (And, yes, it's the trail that Reese Witherspoon hikes in the movie, "Wild.")

6. Tohoku Nature Trail

Length: 2,718 miles

Located in the northern part of Japan's main island, Tohoku means "northeast." This trail takes you through the country's most beautiful mountains in its northeast region (and even along the Pacific Coast via the previously mentioned Michinoku Coastal Trail route).

You'll pass through rice fields, artisanal villages and ski resorts, as the weather here is ripe for walking during all four seasons.

5. Hokkaido Nature Trail

Length: 2,849 miles

The longest trail in Japan, the Hokkaido Nature Trail was first started in 2003 and continues to grow to this day.

Found on Japan's northern island of Hokkaido, the mountainous and remote area can be explored in various day hikes or tackled all at once during summer months.

4. Continental Divide Trail

Length: 3,100 miles

Travel along the Continental Divide of the United States on the CDT , considered "one of the largest conservation efforts" in American history.

The trail follows along the natural divide beginning at the border of Mexico in New Mexico, through Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and ending in Montana at the border of Canada.

3. Grand Italian Trail

Length: 3,700 miles

Location: Italy

Crossing through Italy's many different regions and islands is the Grand Italian Trail or the Sentiero Italia . This national trail begins in Trieste, explores the Alpine Arc and Apennine mountains en route through the Tuscan countryside to Sicily and Sardinia, where it comes to an end.

It is divided into 368 sections (so you don't have to walk all of Italy in one fell swoop) and visits six UNESCO natural sites.

2. E1 European Long-Distance Path

Length: 4,960 miles

You'll visit seven countries if you hike the E1 , as the trail meanders north and south between the northern tip of Scandinavia through Italy's boot and Sicily.

The first stage covers Norway, Finland and Sweden before crossing into Denmark, Germany, Switzerland and wrapping up in Italy.

1. The Great Trail of Canada

Length: 14,912 miles

Location: Canada

The world's longest recreational trail, known in Canada as simply the Great Trail , opened in 2017 and blew the other trails out of the water in terms of distance.

The trail traverses across the entire country from coast to coast and also travels north along the Rocky Mountains to the Beaufort Sea and back down following Mackenzie River. It crosses land and water with some portions accessed via ferry.

The 12 World's Longest Hiking Trails

The world's trails offer a wide range of possibilities for the hiking lovers, in quest for kilometres. Between 425 kilometres and 24 000 kilometres, this articles, presenting the world’s longest treks , will likely make you feel tired already! From the United-States to Canada or even Japan , crossing Europe , the world does not lack long treks, all as magnificent and challenging as the other. Between dense forests, steep paths and impressive lakes with intense colours, we give you the chance to discover some long diversified treks as well as a selection of Ferrino’s equipments ideal to follow you during your adventure.

Pacific Crest Trail, Great Himalaya Trail, Te Araroa, The Long Canadien Trail ... Follow us on the world’s longest treks!

Our selection of the world’s 12 longest treks :

Pacific Crest Trail - United-States
Continental Divide Trail - United-States
Trans Canada trail - Canada
Appalachian Trail - United-States
Te Araroa - New-Zelande
Great Himalayan Trail - Nepal
Via Dinarica - Slovenia et Albania
Via Alpina - Alpes
Kungsleden Royal Path - Sweden
Hokkaido Nature Trail - Japan
Oregon Trail - United-States
Grand Italian Trail - Italy
Ferrino equips you for your next trek

Pacific Crest Trail – United-States

The Pacific Crest Trail , also called PCT , is one of the longest path of the United-States and forms a “ triple crown “ with two other treks in the US, the Appalachian Trail and the Continental Divide Trail . The “Triple Crown” combines the 3 main long distance trail in the United-States.

The Pacific Crest Trail follows the Pacific Ocean coast for 4240 km , from Mexico to Canada. Starting from the Mexican border ( close to Campo ) , the Pacific Crest Trail goes through the Sierra Nevada and the Cascade Range, a mountain range located between the states of California, Oregon, and Washington in the US and the province of British Colombia in Canada. The PCT reaches therefore summits as its highest point is the Forester summit at a 4009 m altitude in California. Every year, about 200 hikers out of 300 reach their objective and are able to finish the Pacific Crest Trail , from south to north. We call them the “thru-hikers”. The length of this tiring trek varies between 4 and 6 months and is usually done between end of April and end of September. The trekkers which start this sporty adventure will be able to observe at close the lakes from Crater Lake national park, a celesta blue lake located near Mazama volcano crater, as well as the incredible wildlife of Oregon national forest. The varied panoramic views and altitude heights offered by this unique trek are those typically found in the high-mountains environment, which leave trekkers with remarkable memories. If you are tempted to see a video of the Pacific Crest Trail, we invite you to watch the film Wild , put to images by Jean-Marc Vallée with Reese Witherspoon in the character of Cheryl Stayed, who decides to do the PCT alone.

Distance : 4 240 km
Length : between 4 and 6 months
Best seasons : between end of April and end of September

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Continental divide trail – united-states.

4 989 km : nothing less! The Continental Divide Trail is a long trek composed of a succession of varied paths within the Rocky Mountains , a mountain chain located to the West of North America . The “Rockies” offer surprising landscapes as the mountains are the sources of multiple water streams that land in the world’s three of the five oceans : the Atlantic Ocean , the Pacific Ocean and the Arctic Ocean. The Continental Divide Trail goes through several American states from New-Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Idaho and Montana and continues its itinerary until the Jasper Park in Canada, a large wild area, home to many species such as the wapitis, moose, Canadian mouflon and bears. The highest point of this trek is Grays Pic, located in the Colorado and reaching a 4 349 m altitude. Every year, they are less than thirty to try to finish this itinerary by foot, from south to north. The itinerary to follow, only marked for ¾ of the trail and the duration of the Continental Divide Trail , approximately 6 months, make this trek one for expert hikers. Furthermore, it presents sections known for their difficulty, especially in the national forest of Santa Fé and around Glacier National Park in the Montana. Usually done from April to October , this trek oscillates between lunar landscape and green valleys with rapid waters, for the enjoyment of hikers who like challenges.

Distance : 4 989 km
Length: around 6 months
Best seasons : from start of April and end of October

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Trans canada trail - canada.

The Trans Canada Trail , is 24 000 km long. It is one of the world’s longest hiking trail.. It links two oceans, the Atlantic to the Pacific, and two big province capital, Victoria, in the province of British-Columbia, on the island of Vancouver and Saint-Jean, in the heart of the Newfoundland and Labrador province.

Doing a trek on the Trans Canada Trail it's discovering the urban, rural and wild beauty of Canada and travelling on roads, on foot itinerary and waterways crossing thirteen provinces and territories. The main part of this trek follows the south border that Canada shares with the United-States and meets in the way the main major cities of this region such as Winnipeg, Toronto, Ottawa et Montreal .

The Trans Canada Trail has also two branches on the north-east, more Nordic, linking Edmonton, Tuktoyaktuk and Inuvik . To do the world’s longest trek and discover transcendent Canadian landscapes , you can think about using kayaks or stand-up paddles, as about one third of the itinerary follows waterways. Every locomotion can be planned except the car!

Distance : 24 000 km
Length : about 500 days (about 1 year and 4 months)

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Appalachian trail – united-states.

The Appalachian Trail is at the eastern coast of the United-States what the Pacific Crest Trail is at its West coast. Meet one of the best american discovery trail. From Springer Moun t in Georgia to Month Katahdin in the Maine, the Appalachian Trail crosses fourteen states on more than 3510 km of trails entirely marked. The ideal moment to start this hike is around March. You can at this moment enjoy a clement climate on the entire path by privileging the road that goes from south to north. On the program of this unique route many landscapes will be encountered. First, The Nation Park of the Great Smoky Mountains in the Tenessee, the wildest and most technical section of the Appalachian Trail where you can observe the black bears, the wapiti and more than 5 400 different vegetal species. Also, The Blue Ridge Mountains , a mountainous and dense forest chain located at the East of the United-States and the National Park Shenandoah of Virginia, where you will be able to meet, out of others, lynx, raccoons, and opossums . You will finish this diversified landscape trek by the crossing of the Maine, nicknamed « Hundred-Mile Wilderness » by the accustomed, for its difficulty and the wild landscape surrounding its woody paths. The crossing of the Maine, often unpredictable depending on the weather variations and the power of the water streams crossed, inaugurates the climbing of the Katahdin Mount with a highest point at 1 606 m, the last step of this prestigious trek.

Distance : 3 510 km
Best seasons : start of March to end of August

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Te Araroa – New-Zealand

The small coastal village of Te Araroa has given its name to a 3 000 km trail crossing the two island of New- Zealand , from the Reinga Cap at the northern extremity to Cap Bluff, at the southern extremity. You will need between 100 and 160 days to finish this long trek, which links the Tasman Sea to the west, to the Pacific Ocean to the east. The few 150 hikers that decide to undertake the Te Araroa usually start beginning of October from the sand beach of Reinga Cap. The Te Araroa Trail offers very diversified environments for its hikers, as forest and jungle alternate on the northern island.

As for the southern island, it has the highest summits of the sometime deserted regions, such as the Richmond Mount. The alpine landscape and the jungles make place to impressive ice glacier and rocky passages during the trek. The Te Araroa Trail , which does not cross any roads or civilization for more than 140 km, has been chosen for its sublime lunar backgrounds by the film industry. The backgrounds of Lord of the Rings by Peter Jackson have been for example filmed, for the main parts, on this extraordinary trek itinerary.

Distance : 3 000 km
Length: between 100 and 160 days (about 3 to 5 months)
Best period : between October and February

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Great himalayan trail – nepal.

The Great Himalayan Trail is a network of hiking trail linking the itineraries of major trek on the Nepalese Himalayan chain . The Great Himalayan Trail , known for its difficulty, requires a good endurance and altitude acclimatation. In fact, the Great Himalayan Trail links the far out stretched massif of Api Himal in the Far West of the country, reaching 7 132 m in height , to the region of the Kanchenjunga, shelter to the world’s third-highest summit with a 8 586 m elevation , located for its part at the east of the country. The itinerary of this trek follows the northern border that the Nepal shares with the Tibet. With a distance of 1700 km and its high altitude, the Great Himalayan Trail is often perceived as the ultimate trek, where hiking can be sometimes confronted with mountain sickness . It alternates high roads, placed between 3 000 and 6 000 m altitude, and low paths enabling direct contact with the local agricultural villages. The very high mountain climate is very challenging and tiring, and therefore makes the Great Himalayan Trail one of the most technical and risky treks in the world. It however stays the dream of many hikers who wish to travel on the paths of the world’s roof.

Distance : 1 700 km
Length : around 3 months
Best seasons : between mid-August and end of November

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Via Dinarica – Slovenia and Albania

The Via Dinarica : the discovery of the other Alps! In the continuity of the occidental Alps , the dinaric chains follow the borders of the Adriatic Sea until the north of Albania, and crosses 7 countries, such as Slovenia. With a length of 1260 km , this hiking path can be done in 2 or 3 months and offers the possibility to see bears, foxes, and a lot of other animal and vegetal species. In 2016, we could count less than ten trekkers having achieved to cross the entire Via Dinarica. This itinerary is considered difficult as few summits exist to go from one valley to the other, and we can count a great quantity of snakes on the way, such as the Ottoman viper, very venomous. The Via Dinarica asks therefore for a good physical conditions as well as a great awareness of the surrounding environment, but offers in return to create unique links between hikers and rural villages. The hikers going through the Via Dinarica are in fact encouraged to respect the cultural diversity and environment, as well as the authenticity of the encountered communities. This itinerary constitutes a grand project, supported by Europe, which aims to create 3 different trails, going through only the Balkans . One of those trails would be done by the mountains, the second following the coast and the last one inside the lands. New itineraries based on the Via Dinarica are therefore greatly awaited by the all hikers!

Distance : 1 260 km
Length : 2 to 3 months
Best seasons : between March et May or between end of August and November

Via Alpina – Alps

Initiated by the Grande Traversée of the Alps in 1999, the Via Alpina has become a network of alpine hikes offering 5 international itineraries. They offer in total 342 stops for 5 000 treks. Linking Trieste to Monaco , it covers eight countries: Slovenia, Italy, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France and the principality of Monaco. If the name of each itinerary are those of colours, they are not representative of the difficulty of each. For hikers searching for high sensations, this itinerary is perfect, as some parts at 3 000 m require having stable steps and to not fear heights. You should prioritize the period between June and October to challenge yourself on the Via Alpina in order to stay away from herds often guarded by “patous”, dogs trained to protect those herds. You will have to be careful of where you walk as on the Via Alpina you could meet with aspic and peliade Vipers, as well as tick, smaller, but dangerous too! The offered itineraries are very appreciated by hikers, which in particular enjoy the conviviality of refuges encountered.

Distance : 5 000 km
Length : around 4 to 5 months
Best seasons : between June and October

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kungsleden – royal path – sweden.

Combining open spaces and relative physical difficulty, the R oyal path , or " Kungsleden " in Swedish , is a trek entirely marked for more than 425 km, stretching from Abisko National Park, known for its Nordic wildlife as well as its transparent lakes waters, to Hemavan, places from where you can see the magnificent Swedish mountains such as the Norra Storfjället , with its 1 768 m summit. The Royal Path crosses the wild lands of the Swedish Lapland, registered on the mondial patrimony of UNESCO . Kungsleden is divided into 5 segments, corresponding to each one good week of hiking. The trail is equipped with refuges around every 20 km, on the northern part. This trek itinerary is doable from beginning of June to September ; until mid-july by day and continues on the northern part. The hikers which decide to go on the Royal path ( Kungsleden ) will be able to see the midnight sun, a natural phenomenon of one entire month when the sun never sets, offering a ski with hot and vivid colours.

Distance : 425 km
Length: about 40 days
Best seasons : between June and September

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Hokkaido nature trail – japan.

First dropped out from the natural paths by the Japanese government in the seventies, the Hokkaido Nature Trail plans were finally approved in 2003. As a result : no less than 4585 km for this path representing seven months of adventure, crossing from top to bottom the well-known island at the top of Japan until reaching the Sapporo, the third-largest city of Japan and the regional island of Hokkaido. The peninsula ranked on the world UNESCO patrimony of Shiretoko , kingdom of cliffs , waterfalls and seabirds, crossing the Hidaka Mont in the south, reaching between 1500 and 2000 m, l’ Hokkaido Nature Trail offers a diversified outdoor experience on a land with a similar size to Austria. You will be able to let yourself dream while admiring those incredible diversity of landscapes, between glaciers, woods and volcanos. Considering the length of this trek, you will be able to discover Japan during 3 consecutive seasons. Summer stays the best season to undertake this trail, as temperatures are relatively tempered in this region. Snows from the winter season create, however, an even more memorable scenery!

Distance : 4 585 km
Length : around 7 months
Best season : June and December

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The oregon trail - united-states.

3500 km are waiting for you on this path taken by pioneers in the XIX th century to go from the city of Missouri to Oregon. The Oregon Trail , is an historic trail which takes you on green grassland , canyons, deserts, and waterfalls of this region of the US, a bunch of unique landscapes that you will remember. The Oregon trail makes you notably cross the Owyhee Canyonlands Park , with its impressive canyons travelled by rivers and where mountain vegetation grow on the rocks and sandy spring soil. Around 6 months of hiking are necessary to reach the end of this long trail. We recommend that you do this trek in April as grass is high and weather conditions are optimal.

Distance : 3 500 km
Length : around 6 months
Best seasons: between April and september

Grand Italian Trail or Sentiero Italia – Italy

Sentiero Italia or the Grand Italian Trail offers a great trail of 6166 km divided into 368 segments . It starts at the bottom of the dinarique Alps at Trieste and ends at the northern Sardinia peninsula at Santa Teresa Gallura, 13 km away from Bonifacio in Corsica. Spring and Autumn are ideal seasons to challenge yourself on the segment of your choice. If you choose to do them all and complete the Sentiero Italia, count around 8 to 9 months of walking. On your itinerary of this long and enjoyable hiking path : the entire crossing of the Apennines chain via the Sibylline monts at 2476 m and the mont Vettore and a stop in the Regional park of the Simbruini monts. During the last step of the Sentiero Italia , you will regain the warm border of the Mediterranean Sea, on the Sicilian and Sardinia beaches.

Distance : 6 166 km
Length : 8 to 9 months
Best season : Between March and October

Ferrino equips you for your long treks

Before going head first on one of the world's longest trail, you need to pick the right equipment for long distances . To do so, we have chosen 7 Ferrino products that you shouldn’t miss on your trips with a small budget!

Offering an excellent quality/ price ratio , the Italian brand has imposed itself as the reference for trekking equipment, mountaineering and bivouac. Since 1870, Ferrino , offers a wide range of tents , inflatable mats , or backpacks for the greatest pleasure of beginners and professionals. Outdoor lovers who wish to be equipped with products of great quality without, necessarily, increasing their budget, therefore turn themselves to Italian brand for their treks. Why not do like them? Let us present to you the unmissable Ferrino products to undertake your long hike or treks, and discover the most beautiful places in the world well-equipped.

The Ferrino Lightent 2 Pro is the ideal model for adventurers who trail in duo and give a great importance to the weight of their carrying. As strong as it is light weighted, this tent will be a great choice if you do not wish to make any compromise between lightness and resistance against the difficult conditions and that you will be facing, during a long trek or hike .

Ferrino knows also that having a good night's rest is necessary for spending perfect treks around the world. If your sleeping bag needs to bring comfort and warmth , it shouldn’t be difficult to carry during the day. The Italian brand has won this bet with the Lightech 800 Duvet , with a natural down isolation offering an excellent warmth, all with a highly compressible and light product.

What would be a good sleeping bag without a good mat , easily inflatable , easy to carry and ultra light? Search no longer, the Air Lite from Ferrino is the lightweight mat that you need to spend nights as comfortable as at home. Once packed, this mat makes itself forgotten in your backpack , for the greatest pleasure of those who like light travelling.

At last, for the most demanding for their sleep quality and comfort, Ferrino has developed the Traveller Liner Mummy , an ultra light sleeping bag liner which will come and add to the thermal comfort and hygiene of your sleeping bag for big comfort bivouac nights. Made with natural and soft cotton, it enables to keep your sleeping bag clean and fresh, and to spend nights as enjoyable outside than at home.

Greatest friend on the trails, the Transalp 60 , a reference in the world of trekking backpack . With great volumes and numerous functionality, this trekking backpack will enable you to bring all the necessary material for your long treks and to not lack anything when you are far from civilization and refuelling.

You will be able to hide in it your Trekker Ripstop , a waterproof poncho made to keep you dry as well as your backpack in the event of weather decline during your trip. Once the sun is back, this poncho will easily find its place in your backpack, in its own storage pocket, in order to keep your equipment organized.

And because your legs deserve to stay dry, we recommand you to add to your equipment the ZIP Motion Pants , a waterproof, and windproof pants with elastic adjustment for an optimal protection against the elements.

Because images tell us more than a 1000 words , discover Ferrino on tape for its 150th anniversary . Real reference for outdoor lovers , the brands never stops innovating to offer light, durable products of quality and at the best price, to make trekking accessible to the greatest amount.

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The list of the longest treks has awakened the adventurer which sleeps within you? Equipped with your hiking shoes, breathable and waterproof clothes , a backpack without forgetting your walking poles , survival blanket , a good solar protection and your hygiene products, why not going on a short trek to prepare yourself for those gigantic trails? We offer you to discover treks with varied landscape across the world!

You still have some questions or would like some other information on treks and hikes around the world? Do no hesitate to contact our team of experts on the +33 ( 0) 1 84 67 14 24 (free calls) or by sending a message to our Customer care centre . We will be delighted to help you and answer your questions!

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To choose your waterproof jacket, your trail shoes or to modify an order, contact our HardGuides!

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Longest Hiking Trails In The World

The Trans Canada Trail, the longest hiking trail in the world.

The United States is one country where hiking has been a popular recreational activity that is associated with camping, day hiking, and cross-country hikes. Hiking trails are mostly well-maintained by volunteers, and some are funded by national parks. According to the Outdoor Industry Association, an estimated 34 million Americans adopted the hobby in 2012. A strange twist to an outdoor activity that many used to frown upon because in the 18th century and earlier, hiking in America was associated with tramps, homelessness, and impoverishment. The development and appointment of many wild hiking trails have gained momentum as more Americans have adopted the leisure activity.

Longest Hikes in the World

There is a lot in store for the hikers of the world. The following trails offer the best and longest hiking trails in the world.

Trans Canada Trail

Let us start with Canada 's Trans Canada or Great Trail. At 14,912 miles (24,000 km), the trails blows its competition out of the water. It is comprised of about 400 interconnected communities that maintain its own connected trails. The trail stretches from the Atlantic Ocean at the trailhead in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador to the Pacific Ocean in Victoria, British Columbia and the Arctic Ocean in Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories. Outdoor activities include biking, horseback riding, skiing, and canoeing.

Great Western Loop

The Great Western Loop is one of the longest hiking trails in the US at 6,875 miles (11,064 km). The trail through 9 US states including New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California, and Arizona. The trail crosses the Mojave and Sonoran deserts as well as 12 national parks and 75 wilderness areas.

American Discovery Trail

The American Discovery Trail crosses 15 US states and Washington, D.C., traversing the country from the Atlantic to the Pacific coast from Delaware to California. The trail passes through 16 national forests, 14 national parks, and over 10,000 historical sites.

Sentiero Italia

Seventh in the world but the longest outside North America is the Sentiero Italia in Italy . It begins in Trieste and ends in St. Teresa Gallura in Sardinia. The hike goes through the Alpine Arc and the Apennine mountain range. It winds thru the Italian coastline, vineyards, and ancient ruins to snow-capped mountains.

Hokkaido Nature Trail

Hokkaido Nature Trail (2,849 miles) is the longest trail in Japan and the ninth longest in the world. It offers a moderate walking and backpacking trek. Mountainous and volcanic scenery with cool summer temperature in the island of Hokkaido.

The Usefulness of Hiking

Trails may be for day hikes, weekend hikes, snow hikes, and cross-country hikes that take months or longer to accomplish. Getting there is half the fun as hikers encounter waterfalls, tarns, glaciers, mountains, wildlife, montane forests, lakes, and even lost civilizations. Some hikers prefer solitude while others love hiking with friends and the camaraderie that it offers. Hiking the world not only offers more opportunities to connect and experience different cultures and foreign scenery but also gives a different perspective to the hiker. Solitude, camaraderie, and a new outlook of life maybe the effects of hiking the world.

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9 Longest Hiking Trails in the World

There’s just something about long trails. Beyond the mileage and the physical component, distance trails require a different type of commitment and mindset—almost a lifestyle. And worldwide, the planet’s long trails also provide an intimate glimpse of some of the most fascinating and far-flung places on earth. From the Alps to the Appalachians, here are a few of the longest hiking trails on the planet. (And be sure to read up on how to prep are for a long distance hike if you plan to travel to these remarkable hiking trails.)

Trans Canada Trail

American discovery trail, e1 european long distance path, north country trail, grand italian trail, continental divide trail, great himalayan trail, appalachian trail, te araroa trail, related reading.

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First conceived in 1992 as a way to connect hiking , cycling, and paddling routes across Canada, the Trans Canada Trail is the most extensive trail network on the planet. Stretching from Newfoundland’s Atlantic Coast to the edge of the Pacific Ocean in British Columbia, the Trans Canada Trail is actually a massive conglomeration of regional trails, totaling more than 16,700 miles, and threading a multiplicity of Canadian landscapes, from the coastal wilderness edging the Bay of Fundy to the plains of Saskatchewan to the otherworldly skies the Yukon, illuminated by aurora borealis. And besides hiking , the multifaceted trail system also has offerings for bikers, paddlers, and equestrians, including Quebec’s P’tit Train de Nord cycling route and the Salish Sea Marine Trail in British Columbia.

Connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean, the American Discovery Trail is the country’s first car-free, coast-to-coast trail. Totaling more than 6,800 miles, the trail extends from Cape Henlopen State Park in Delaware to California’s Point Reyes National Seashore , splitting into a northern route and a longer southern route in Ohio. Originally inspired by a cross-country trek organized by the American Hiking Society in 1980, the countrywide route cobbles together five of the country’s national scenic trails, providing access to 14 national parks , and weaving through 16 different national forests. From the Chesapeake Bay to the wind-tousled grasslands of the Great Plains to the snow-frosted peaks of the Sierra Nevada, the trail rambles through 20 states and the District of Columbia, treating hikers to a firsthand taste of America’s diversity of landscapes.

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It's the great summer debate: Hiking boots vs. shoes for summer trails. In recent years, the popularity of hiking boots has diminished, while the number of hikers you see on the trails in hiking shoes and trail runners has dramatically increased. Why is that? When hiking boots have served us for so many years, why are more and more hikers moving away from wearing them? If you speak to some grizzled traditionalists on the trail, they'll tell you at great length that we should stick to our hiking boot roots. They might even be in leather boots older than you, with nails on the soles. They've worn those boots as far back as they can remember, and there's no need to risk injuries by wearing trail shoes instead. But are boots really that good, or are there times when trail shoes aren't just okay to wear, but better? It's time to end the hiking boots vs. shoe argument once and for all.

Why have hiking boots stood the test of time? Hiking boots have been around the block and then a little farther, and there's a good reason for that. Although they vary in stiffness and style, hiking boots generally have a broader, more stable sole than a trail runner or hiking shoe, which combines with the higher ankles to keep you upright and stable. By doing this, they promote good hiking posture. This is especially beneficial for newer hikers and anyone carrying larger, multi-day hiking backpacks, where the extra weight will increase the risk of an ankle rolling.

Known for its stunning natural beauty and proximity to the great outdoors, the city of Seattle offers many hiking trails suitable for all experience levels. Whether you're a beginner seeking a stroll through picturesque forests or an expert hiker craving a challenging alpine adventure, Seattle has something for everyone.

Like comfortable hiking boots and your best hiking backpack, well-fitted pants can be the difference between a good hike and a great hike. The best hiking pants are durable, lightweight, and comfortable in almost any weather. After all, your legs are your transport along the trail and a pair of quality hiking pants will protect them from both the elements and unwanted leg chafing. (Spoiler alert: All chafing is unwanted.)

Thanks to remarkable advances in eco-friendly fabric technology, the world’s best outdoor clothing brands now make some truly epic hiking pants. The good news is that you don’t have to spend a fortune to score a good pair. Here are the best hiking pants for men in 2023.

12 of the World’s Longest Hiking Trails

Hiking trails are all about getting out of your comfort zone and exploring nature, but if you want to go beyond that you should plan to check out one of the world’s longest hiking trails . The following list includes nine of the longest hiking trails in the world, each with its own unique scenery and attractions. Some are better suited to serious hikers than others, so read up on them before making your decision!

1) Appalachian Trail – United States

The Appalachian Trail is a hiking trail in the Eastern United States, stretching from Springer Mountain, Georgia, to Maine. It is roughly 2190 miles long and one of the world’s best known long-distance hiking trails. The Appalachian Trail is the oldest and longest footpath in America’s National Park System. The following are among its features:

It passes through 14 states; it runs for about 2190 miles (3,500 km) from Springer Mountain in Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine; 5 million people visit annually. A person can also hike southbound or northbound. The northbound journey takes about six months, while the southbound journey takes five months. The Appalachian Trail was completed in 1937 by volunteers working on behalf of the newly created Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

2) Pacific Crest Trail – United States

The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2650-mile trail extending from Mexico to Canada. It traverses 23 national forests and 7 national parks. It passes through 25 different states, including California, Oregon and Washington. The PCT is well known for being one of the best hiking trails in North America for a variety of reasons.

The Pacific Crest Trail is considered by many to be the epitome of long distance hiking due to its diverse terrain, climate, wildlife and spectacular scenery. Some hikers are able to complete the entire trail in one season but more often than not people choose to hike it over several seasons or years with many taking three months per year off work in order to complete it.

3) Continental Divide Trail – United States

The United States is home to one of the world’s longest hiking trails, and for good reason. The 2,650-mile (4,265-kilometer) long Continental Divide Trail follows the Rocky Mountains from Mexico to Canada. The trail is so remote that it can take up to a month to cover just 50 miles (80 kilometers). Keep in mind this is not a trail for beginners. The CDT was created in 1978 and has been growing ever since with more than 400 people finishing this challenge each year.

4) Te Araroa Trail – New Zealand

The Te Araroa Trail is a multi-day, tramping trail that traverses New Zealand from north to south. The trail stretches 3,000 kilometres and takes about six months to complete. Check out what makes this one of the world’s longest hiking trails. The trail starts in Cape Reinga at the northernmost point of the country and finishes in Bluff on South Island’s southern coast. Along the way, hikers will be guided by maps and signage, but they should also have good navigation skills as sections are unmarked or unmaintained. If you are up for it, you can start at either end – Te Araroa is a loop with no beginning or end.

5) Bibbulmun Track – Australia

The Bibbulmun Track is a long distance hiking trail that runs around the coast of Western Australia. It is about 1000 kilometres in length and takes about six weeks to hike, with an elevation gain and loss of nearly 100,000 metres. The trail has over 1100 campsites, so one can choose to hike for as long or short a period as they wish. Along the way there are beautiful forests, coastal views and limestone caves to explore. The best time to hike this trail is from April to October when it is not raining or too hot or too cold. In winter there may be snow on higher ground and many waterholes will have dried up so make sure you carry enough water for your journey!

6) Arizona Trail – United States

If you are in need of a long-distance hike, then consider the Arizona Trail. This hiking trail is situated in Arizona and runs from Mexico to Utah. The entire length of this trail is 1,300 miles! Along with being one of the longest trails in the world, it also has one of the most beautiful landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Along with that, there are a variety of animals and plant life along this route. The best part about hiking on this path is that you never have to get bored because each day brings new scenery. It is impossible not to feel awe as you gaze at the sun set over majestic mountains or stop for lunch by a river where birds are chirping around you. I highly recommend this hiking trail for those who want to experience something different than what they would find at home.

7) John Muir Trail – United States

The John Muir Trail is a 211 mile (340 km) trail that runs from Yosemite Valley to Mt. Whitney in California, passing through some of the most scenic places in America. It was named after famed naturalist and conservationist John Muir who encouraged many people to visit and explore Yosemite National Park. The trail starts at Happy Isles, located on the eastern side of Yosemite Valley and ends at Pinchot Pass on the summit of Mount Whitney. The John Muir Trail is one of America’s best hiking trails and can be completed in about three weeks time. In 2006, it was ranked as the number one trail in California by the San Francisco Chronicle.

8) Snowman Trek – Bhutan

Snowman Trek in Bhutan is a must-see for any diehard hiker. The 30-day trekking course has been ranked as the fifth best hiking trail in the world by National Geographic. It was created to honor the ancient Tibetan Buddhist Saint, Padmasambhava. Along with incredible views of snowcapped peaks and glaciers, you can also spot wildlife such as tigers, blue sheep, bears, leopards and bharal (a type of sheep).

9) GR 20 – France – longest hiking trails

GR 20 is one of the world’s longest hiking trails, stretching all the way from France to Italy. Spanning over 1000 kilometers and taking up to three months to complete, this trek is both challenging and rewarding. There are many areas along this trail that hikers can camp with or without permits. It is advisable that anyone looking to take on this adventure should be well-prepared before they start their journey as there are no shops open along the way, making it necessary for a hiker to carry enough supplies for themselves during their trek.

10) Great Himalaya Trail, Nepal

The Great Himalaya Trail is one of the best hiking trails in Nepal, as well as one of the longest hiking trails in the world. 2680 kilometers long this trek spans across nine high mountain passes and crosses through eight national parks. The trail is said to be one of the most difficult in the world with a high level of difficulty, but it does not offer any technical climbing sections. It’s not for beginners, but for those who are looking for an extreme challenge that will push their limits and give them bragging rights, this is it! You can hike the sections at a time like Everest Base Camp Trek , Annapurna Circuit Trek , or Manaslu Circuit Trek.

11) Hokkaido Nature Trail

The Hokkaido Nature Trail (HNT) is a hiking trail that runs through the island of Hokkaido, Japan. It spans 2800 miles, making it one of the longest hiking trail in the world. Along with being relatively unknown, this trail is not an easy hike as it takes a full month to complete and has 20 peaks that are over 3200 feet tall! A different climate awaits you at every point along the way as you trek up and down mountains while going through lush forests and crossing grassy plains. There are also many waterfalls to enjoy along your journey!

If you’re looking for an adventurous yet rewarding hike that will take some time out of your busy schedule, then consider taking on this long-distance trekking adventure for yourself. One of the great benefits to hiking is how each trail offers its own uniqueness and scenic beauty; so you can try many trails before deciding which one is best for you. For example, if you don’t want to wait a whole month before finishing the trail, but still want some strenuous exercise and stunning scenery, then try South Kaibab Trail. Though only 8 miles long and taking only two days or so to finish it’s been named one of the best hiking trails in America by Backpacker magazine. Or if you want more challenging terrain without too much elevation change I recommend Haleakala Crater Loop which provides two days of difficult terrain without too much elevation change for avid hikers who like a good challenge but aren’t quite ready for summit climbs!

12) The Grand Italian Trail

The Grand Italian Trail is considered to be one of Italy’s most beautiful and best hiking trails. It stretches a whopping 1,200 kilometers and takes hikers through some of Italy’s most picturesque and diverse landscapes. The best time to take on this challenge is in spring or fall when the weather isn’t too hot or cold. There are plenty of accommodations along the way if you want to stay overnight in your tent. In general, each day will cover around 25-30 miles with an elevation gain between 2,500-3,000 meters (8,200-10,000 feet). The trail passes through Rome for about 45 miles and ends at Sicily. Many trekkers recommend going during October or November because it offers pleasant temperatures with moderate rainfall.

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The Dho Tarap Valley, Nepal is passed during the Great Himalayan Trail

7 of the longest trails the world has to offer

Trek across america.

Spectacular views from the PCT

Striving to complete the Trans Canada Trail

View from the Trans Canada Trail

The Italian trek

The Grand Italian Trail spans the Italian Alps

Touring a Japanese island

The Hokkaido Nature Trail passes volcanic areas

Trekking two African countries

There’s more than landscapes on this trail

Taking on the Himalayas

The Dho Tarap Valley, Nepal

North to south in New Zealand

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World's Best Long-Distance Hikes

The Best Long-Distance Hiking Trails in the World

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

Epic in length and challenge, long-distance hiking trails often represent the ultimate in adventure travel experiences for dedicated backpackers. These routes can stretch for hundreds of miles and often take weeks—or even months—to complete. Along the way, they pass through some of the most scenic and remote landscapes on the planet, where solitude and tranquility can be found in abundance.

If this kind of experience sounds appealing to you, there are plenty of trails that can provide it. From the summits of snow-capped peaks, to the sandy shores of the sea, these are the absolute best long-distance hiking trails in the world. So lace up your boots, grab your pack, and let’s get started, because there are a lot of miles to cover before we’re through.

The Appalachian Trail (United States)

Cavan Images /Getty Images

Any discussion of the best long-distance hiking trails in the world has to include the Appalachian Trail in the U.S. Widely regarded as the finest long-distance route in the world, the AT—as it's referred to by backpackers—opened in 1921, making it one of the first big backpacking routes on the planet. Stretching for 2,200 miles between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, the trail passes through more than a dozen states along its length. Along the way, it wanders through some of the most scenic locations that the Eastern U.S. has to offer.

Most hikers only take on short segments of the AT, walking for just a few days or even a couple of weeks at a time. But this iconic route has also given rise to the "thru-hiker," which is someone who hikes the entire route—start to finish—in one go. This can take weeks or even months to complete, but it is a challenge that many have completed. It is also now a common practice on many other trails too, but thru-hiking traces its origin back to the Appalachian Trail.

Te Araroa (New Zealand)

Photograph by Michael Schwab /Getty Images

The 1864-mile Te Araroa Track in New Zealand is an utterly spectacular hike that gives the Appalachian Trail a run for its money when it comes to love from the backpacking crowd. The name is derived from the language of the indigenous Maori, and it appropriately means "the long pathway." To wander this route end to end, you'll need to start at Cape Regina at the northernmost tip of the North Island and walk all the way to Bluff, at the southernmost end of the South Island. In between, trekkers will find just about every kind of landscape imaginable, from snowcapped peaks, to wide-open meadows, to beaches and deserts, and more. This is a classic hike that should be on every backpacker's bucket list.

The Great Himalaya Trail (Nepal)

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Nepal is one of the best destinations on the planet when it comes to trekking, so naturally it is also home to one of the world's great long-distance routes. The Great Himalaya Trail links up a number of smaller trekking routes, allowing backpackers to wander the entire length of Nepal east to west. The trail is more than 1,000 miles in length and has a surprisingly great infrastructure in place to support trekkers as they go. While camping en route is an option, there are many Nepali villages that fall along the GHT, allowing travelers to stay in rustic and traditional teahouses instead. It goes without saying that the scenery is epic, of course, as hikers pass in the shadow of the world's highest mountains, including Mt. Everest itself.

The Pacific Crest Trail (USA)

Danita Delimont /Getty Images

The U.S. isn't home to just one amazing long-distance hiking trail, but three. The second of the so-called Tripe Crown of Hiking is the Pacific Crest Trail , which runs for 2,653 miles through the Cascade and Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, Oregon, and Washington. Backpackers taking on the entire PCT will essentially find themselves walking from the Canadian Border in the north, to the Mexican border in the south, crossing through some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery that North America has to offer.

The Camino de Santiago (France, Spain, and Portugal)

One of the most famous hikes in all of Europe, the Camino de Santiago takes backpackers across France , Spain , and Portugal along a 500-mile path that has been walked by religious pilgrims for centuries. This hike is more than just a good way to stretch your legs, however, as it is an immersive trek through culture and history passing through villages and towns that have been on this path for hundreds of years.

The Camino is actually made up of a number of smaller, interconnected trails, so the length can vary a bit based on your chosen route. The most popular of those routes begins in Biarritz, France, and ends in Santiago, Spain, requiring about three weeks to complete. Even today, there is a strong spiritual component to this journey, with many backpackers taking inspiration from wandering through the wilderness in the footsteps of the thousands of pilgrims who have gone before them.

The Great Trail (Canada)

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In terms of size and scope, it is hard to top Canada's Great Trail . The route runs for more than 16,000 miles across the country, though it isn't just the sheer length that makes this route so incredible, but the diversity of the landscapes, too. Stretching from the Atlantic in the east all the way to the Pacific in the west, while also dipping to the U.S.-Canada border in the south and heading north all the way to the Arctic, the GT passes through a stunning array of ecosystems. Hikers will cross open plains, climb through towering mountains, wander along rivers, and trek across glaciers. They'll also get the chance to not just walk, but also ride bikes and paddle canoes and kayaks along the way too.

If you want a truly epic challenge the Great Trail will definitely deliver everything you could ask for, and more.

Jordan Trail (Jordan)

Helena Tegenfeldt / EyeEm /Getty Images

The aptly-named Jordan Trail can be found in the country of Jordan , starting at Um Qais in the North and ending along the shores of the Red Sea in Aqaba in the south. At 400 miles in length, it is one of the shorter routes on this list, but that doesn't mean that is isn't a grand adventure—wandering this ancient path will take hikers across the entire length of the country. Along the way, they'll trek through the desert, past ancient Roman ruins, through the rose-red city of Petra , and over surprisingly rugged and remote mountains. It is a truly remarkable journey that deserves its spot among the best long-distance trails in the world.

Continental Divide Trail (United States)

Peter McBride /Getty Images

The third leg of the Triple Crown of Hiking runs through the Rocky Mountains. That's where long-distance hikers will find the Continental Divide Trail , a route that covers 3,100 miles starting at the Mexican border in New Mexico and crossing into Canada before ending in Alberta. As the name implies, the CDT, as it is known, follows the Continental Divide of North America, passing through incredibly remote and scenic landscapes along the way. Longer and more challenging that the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail, this route sees much less traffic, making it a more peaceful walk from end to end.

Tokai Nature Trail (Japan)

Hiking and backpacking culture is alive and well in Japan, as evidenced by the fantastic Tokai Nature Trail . This route runs from Tokyo's Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park all the way to Meiji no Mori Mino Quasi-National Park in Osaka, passing countless scenic vistas. The connection with nature is a big draw for most trekkers, though the path also connects with numerous cultural and historical sites along the way. The route was specifically chosen for its ability to lure hikers away from busy cities and large crowds, immersing them instead in the tranquil solitude of the Japanese wilderness. The Tokai Nature Trail even passes through the shadow of Mt. Fuji, the most famous and sacred of mountains within the country.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse (South Africa and Lesotho)

Emil Von Maltitz /Getty Images

Despite the fact that the Drakensberg Grand Traverse is "only" 150 miles in length, it still requires two to three weeks to complete. That's because it passes through some of the more remote and rugged wilderness in all of South Africa and Lesotho, and requires strong navigational skills in order to do so. Technically, there is no preset route to be found here, and backpackers can choose the path that most fits their needs. But in order to claim a successful completion of the Traverse, hikers must pass through a series of eight checkpoints along the way. To achieve that they'll have to summit six individual peaks, including reaching the highest point in either country.

Trekking the DGT requires an adventurous spirit and the ability to be self-sufficient. This is a trek through a wilderness region that isn't as well marked or maintained as most of the other trails on this list. If your goal is to get away from other hikers and find solitude in the wild, you'll find a lot to love here.

The Snowman Trek (Bhutan)

Bhutan's Snowman Trek is a legendary hike through the Himalaya that is lauded for its stunning beauty, as much as its difficulty. The route takes backpackers on a journey deep into the heart of the world's highest mountain range, past beautiful jagged peaks and over icy glaciers. With more than 48,000 feet of elevation gain spread out across its 200-mile length, this trail is not for the faint of heart. But those who do venture out onto this path will discover that it can be a life-changing experience in terms of learning more about themselves and their connection with nature.

Greater Patagonian Trail (Argentina and Chile)

DoraDalton /Getty Images

Occupying the southernmost tip of South America, and stretching across both Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is undoubtedly one of the best wilderness regions on the entire planet. In order to experience it in all of its glory, trekkers should hike at least a small segment of the Greater Patagonian Trail . The entire route stretches for over 1300 miles and usually requires more than a month to complete. But those who do wander the full distance will be treated to landscapes that are unlike anything else found on Earth. The route takes hikers through the Andes Mountains, past glacially fed lakes, around spectacularly beautiful fjords, and across open meadows that have to be see to be believed.

The GPT itself is cobbled together using hiking paths, horse trails, old jeep roads, and even some pack rafting from time to time. Good navigational skills come in handy too, but the payoff is a complete traverse of one of the best adventure travel destinations on the planet.

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a hiker on the Via Dinarica trail in Bosnia and Herzegovina

Captivating sunsets are only one of the natural treats hikers experience along the Via Dinarica.

Journey Across 7 Countries on the World's Newest Long-Distance Trail

Hiking this 1,200-mile-long trail along the Dinaric Alps is worth the trek.

The World’s Newest Long-Distance Trail

The Via Dinarica , one of the world’s newest long-distance hiking trails, spans seven countries, 1,200 miles, and thousands of years of history. This area of the Balkans—mostly in the region formerly known as Yugoslavia—has long been the border between the east and west. Its complex history fueled a war in the 1990s as Yugoslavia disintegrated and these mountains became places of strategic advantage.

This new trail aims to move beyond that. Mountaineer Kenan Muftić has spent the last four years scouting out routes in the region’s mountains. He and the Via Dinarica team have been hard at work developing the White Trail, which follows the highest peaks of the Dinaric Alps. Muftić’s goal is to create three distance trails spanning former Yugoslavia. The White Trail—comprised of old shepherd routes, existing trails through national parks, logging tracks, new paths, and paved roads—officially opened in June 2016, the same week we started walking. (Based on reports from hikers, the team announced in August that “although plenty of information for those daring the trail are available,” the route would only be considered officially open only in Bosnia and Herzegovina, where work has been done to cut new paths.)

a hiker on the Via Dinarica trail in Slovenia

A hiker looks out to the Adriatic Sea from the summit of Slovenia's Snežnik mountain.

Muftić’s fieldwork is supported by the diplomatic efforts of American Tim Clancy, a Via Dinarica team member who came to Bosnia and Herzegovina with an aid group during the war in the 1990s and never left. By physically connecting people across this divided region, Clancy hopes to help conserve some of the last wild places in Europe . “We have a chance to preserve what much of Europe lost long ago,” Clancy says.

The Odyssey Begins

The first stage of the Via Dinarica begins in Postonja, Slovenia , where a gleaming white castle looms over a moss-streaked cave. The trail leads from the castle under train tracks, over a highway, and up a hill, where pavement gives way to gravel and thick pine forests close in. As the day heats up, what it means to hike across the world’s largest karst field finally sinks in: This spectacular limestone formation drains like a sieve—there is almost no surface water.

The first marked water source, a small hut with a plastic rainwater cistern, is off the trail on a small mountain. Throughout the Dinaric Alps entire towns live on collected rain. It tastes stiff with plastic and a smoky barbecued flavor.

We’re wondering where to pitch our first camp when a passing Jeep directs us to Jože Meze, who is puttering in his garden about a mile down the road. Meze worked here as a cook at a partisan camp during World War II, where he later built his summer house. Dimpled with a stub nose and pink cheeks, Meze says we can have water—but first, rakija . The homemade brandy is ubiquitous in the region. He bobs back with a liquor bottle, brimming shot glasses, and beer. The next day, the same Jeep driver again leaves us half a bottle of rakija for liquid encouragement at the top of the next hill.

a castle tucked into a cave along the Via Dinarica trail in Postonja, Slovenia

The Predjamski Grad castle sits tucked into the mouth of a cave near the start of the Via Dinarica in Postonja, Slovenia.

A daily pattern emerges: our constant preoccupation with water, frequent confusion, and the incredible kindness of strangers. While many long-distance trails have become a kind of trophy, an experience to be collected rather than savored, the Via Dinarica isn’t about speed records. The trail stretches across rugged and isolated landscapes that give any other backcountry a run for its money, but it also crosses farmers’ fields and threads through villages. While logistics and terrain can be challenging, the deviations and obstacles often bring gifts like the golden comfort of honey brandy or a warm fire in a tiny cabin. The beauty of this project is in the in-between places.

Hunker Down and Wait

In the southern reaches of the Velebit mountains of Croatia , the wind begins to blow. The tops of the beech trees rustle, then groan. Scorching heat made the day’s hiking a thirsty affair, but now sweat is quickly turning cold. Nestled into the bowl of a little valley perched over the Adriatic coast, we stumble on an emergency shelter that hums with the energy of the coming storm. Though not yet full-fledged, the wind is strong enough that it’s necessary to grasp at rocks to stand upright, and using the bathroom becomes difficult when going in any direction means pissing into the wind.

This breeze has a name: the bura (or bora). Its name may stem from the Greek mythological figure Boreas, the north wind. It’s a katabatic wind that can start suddenly, whipping the Adriatic with devastating effect. Although bura occurs along many areas of the Mediterranean coast, the gales can reach speeds of up to 156 miles per hour around Velebit, where mountains sharply divide pressure systems. It’s one of the reasons emergency shelters are scattered throughout the mountains—once bura begins there’s not much to do but hunker down and wait.

a hiking hut along the Via Dinarica trail in Croatia

Schlosser Dom gleams in evening light after a thunderstorm. The hut is maintained by the Croatian government and offers refuge to hikers in Risnjak National Park.

The next day dawns calm and ruthlessly hot. A full day’s ration of water weighs nearly nine pounds—hopefully enough to get to the next rainwater cistern. Built in the 1930s, the 35-mile Premužić Trail in northern Velebit is a meandering masterpiece of trail work, winding past jutting limestone teeth and skirting thick pine and beech forest. But past the Premužić Trail and down the littoral slope of Velebit, the next section of the Via Dinarica runs through Paklenica National Park, a popular stop for rock climbers. In the mountains the political complications of the region take physical form. Though the violence is long over, the consequences remain.

In the nearby highlands of Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), for example, the trail runs through Lukomir, the highest village in the country and one of the only Muslim villages in the area to survive Serbian attacks during the 1990s. Just a few kilometers away, the Serbian village of Blace was burned to the ground by Bosnian soldiers. Muftić is quick to point out there were crimes on all sides of the conflict—a reason why resentments linger.

Today, meadows have begun to reclaim Blace’s crumbling ruins, and flowers sprout over the tumbled concrete. On a Sunday morning, a one-room church bell tolls over the empty ruins, and a slow trickle of vehicles bounce over the open grassland as people arrive to attend service. The simple grace of the ritual is at odds with the visible remains of destruction.

a hiker overlooking Rakitnica canyon in the central mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina

A hiker soaks in the view from an overlook above Rakitnica Canyon in the central mountains of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Over the pass, Lukomir is not only still occupied but a tourist destination. The danger Lukomir now faces is one threatening rural populations all over the world: young people are leaving in search of work, leaving an aging population.

Conservation and Climate Change

Dušan Simović bursts into the room draped in the skin of a bear that he’s shot. Its splayed paws are the size of dinner plates, with claws the length of fingers. A tall, wiry man, Simović lives in the Treskavica mountains in southern BiH, and when we materialize off the trail above his barn, he invites us inside his smoky kitchen and dishes up deer steak, foraged mushrooms, and fresh milk from his cows. He laughs at our “lucky” hand-carved bear necklaces—a gift from an old woman in Slovenia. “For a real bear charm you need a real bear,” Simović says, cutting off one of the claws as a gift.

Despite longstanding fears over the decline of Europe’s large carnivores, a recent study in Science found that the brown bear population has actually stabilized. There are now around 17,000 in Europe, and reintroduction programs are working to reestablish bears in areas where they’d previously been wiped out. We encountered one such project, the PirosLIFE Catalunya Programme in southern Slovenia.

For years the Pyrenees have been dominated by Pyros, an alpha male bear who was live-trapped near Mašun, Slovenia, in 1997 and brought to the Spanish-French border. Today, about 75 percent of bears in the area are his offspring, and his reproductive prowess has earned modest fame. Scientists now fear that inbreeding will increase the risk of disease, so in 2016 a team returned to Mašun for Goiat, a second male bear that will hopefully introduce more genetic diversity.

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Although the success of the Pyrenees program may be in no small part thanks to Pyros, large mammals also depend on the health of their ecosystems to survive. Because of historically isolationist policies, the Dinaric Alps are not as well studied as their neighbors, but they contain some of the last undisrupted forests in Europe.

We spend several days sloshing through these forests toward Sutjeska, the oldest and largest national park in BiH. At a summit near Prijevor we met Miroslav Svoboda, a professor of forestry and wood sciences at the Czech University of Life Sciences, who invites us into a small mountain hut for rakija. He is part of an international group that is investigating the health of some of the last old-growth stands in Europe.

a hiker on the Via Dinarica trail near the Velebit mountains, Croatia

Two hikers pause along the trail near the Velebit mountains.

Socks steam dry above the wood stove as Svoboda explains that we don’t know much about how humans affect the forest dynamics. As part of a team doing long-term monitoring of ecosystems in Velebit, Croatia, one of the few places in the Mediterranean where Norway spruce survives, Svoboda’s trying to fill in that gap. He hopes that by learning more about the health of these ecosystems scientists will learn how they are being altered by climate change.

The End of the Road

The final descent of the Via Dinarica spills into Valbona Pass, where trees and greenery seem to lose their enthusiasm partway up bare stone pinnacles. Crags hide small patches of last winter’s snow. While there’ve been few hikers on the Via Dinarica, the handful of people on this more popular summit speak half a dozen different languages—a sign that the universal language of hiking is returning to the region.

The Via Dinarica is a remarkable feat considering its political and geographical challenges, though, like any new trail, information about resources and routes are still being compiled. As some of the first through-hikers, we had the privilege of being alone in a stunning landscape—and all the hurdles that entailed.

Looking out over Valbona Pass, I finally begin to understand why, as Muftić says, those along the route have something in common. “We may have huge challenges from the past, but we must be together.”

Lois Parshley is a journalist, photographer, and National Geographic Young Explorer. For more from Via Dinarica and other adventures, follow her on @loisparshley on Twitter and Instagram .

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Best Thru Hikes In The World- 11 Epic Long Distance Treks

If you are a keen hiker, you would have realized that there are amazing trails to be found in every corner of the planet. Some treks only last a few hours. However, the best thru hikes in the world will require months of your time and planning.

From historic pilgrimages to trails that cross entire continents, one lifetime is not nearly enough time to complete them all! In the least, you should add a few of these famous hikes to your bucket list.

In no particular order, let's take a look at the best long distance hikes in the world.

11 Best Through Hikes In The World

1. the west highland way, scotland.

This is a 96-mile / 155km trail that runs from Milngavie to Fort William. It first opened in 1980. These days The West Highland Way is one of the most popular hikes in Europe . Along the way, you get to see some iconic views in the Scottish highlands including Loch Lomond, Rannoch Moore, and, Glencoe Village.

The trail passes through diverse landscapes and gives hikers the chance to visit historic castles and ruins. Fast trekkers can complete the route in as little as 5 days but most people take 7-8 days.

If you are interested in this hike, read our complete guide to the West Highland Way . The West Highland Way also has its own website .

2. Pacific Crest Trail (PCT), USA

A 2,650-mile, 4265 km trail that runs from Mexico to Canada. The PCT traverses California, Washington, and Oregon. As well as hiking, this is also a popular equestrian trail.

The trail passes a wide range of landscapes including the Pacific coastline, multiple national parks and forests. The Pacific Crest Trail also encompasses more than 100 passes in the North American Mountains . This includes the Sierra Nevada range and the volcanic peaks of the Cascade Range .

Depending on your fitness, you can hike the Pacific Crest Trail in sections.

3. The Inca Trail, Peru

This 41 km/ 26-mile trail is often rated as one of the best hikes in South America . It winds through the Peruvian section of the Andes taking hikers to ancient Incan ruins.

The 4-day Inca Trail ends with a sunrise view of the most iconic ruins of all, Machu Picchu . It is not a difficult hike but you will need to be fit enough to make it up the stairs of the infamous Dead Woman’s Pass.

The trail is only accessible with a guide and permits are restricted. If you can’t get a spot on the Inca Trail , there are several great alternative treks to Machu Picchu .

4. Appalachian Trail (AT), USA

Appalachian-Trail-PA-Pennsylvania-State-Park

The Appalachia Trail stretches 3540 km / 2,200 miles from Georgia to Maine. The trail through the Appalachian mountains crosses Great Smoky Mountain and Shenandoah National Parks. You will need about 5-7 months for the entire route which crosses 14 states.

Because it is so long, most people only hike a section of the Appalachian Trail. The Virginia section of the Appalachian trail is the longest. The trails through Georgia , Pennsylvania , Maine , and Maryland are also popular.

A great aspect of the Appalachian trail is the sense of community. 1000s of hikers set off in March or early April every year.

5. The Otter Trail, South Africa

Me and my giant bag in its waterproof cover. Its hard to believe this was just after a downpour!

The Otter trail is one of the most popular trails in South Africa and one of my favourite on home turf. This is a 45km (28 mile, 5 day) route along the Garden Route coastline.

You need to book this hike a few months in advance. Places are limited to 12 hikers each day as there are only two huts at each camp site with 6 beds a piece. You are unlikely to see anyone else on the trail except those in your hiking group.

Its not a particularly difficult hike but there are some steep bits. There is also a river crossing. If you time it right with the tide, this is only a wade up to your ankles.

September to November is an ideal time to be hiking this trail as it is whale season in South Africa. Its hard to keep your eyes on the trail when baby whales are breaching playfully right off the rocks!

6. Great Himalayan Trail, Nepal

Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) is a network of trails that cover over 2, 700km / 1,700 miles. It is one of the longest hiking routes in the world. The trail includes diverse landscapes and links some of the world’s most famous trekking regions.

The trail passes by major trekking routes including the Annapurna circuit , Everest Base Camp and Langtang Valley . Hikers will see some of the highest peaks in the world. As well as these more famous parts of the Himalayas , many sections of the GHT are off the beaten Track.

This epic trail network has everything. From subtropical jungles to alpine tundra and a chance to experience life in rural mountain villages.

7. Camino de Santiago, Spain

Camino-de-Santiago-MountainIQ-Best-Hikes-In-Europe

There are several route options for hiking the Camino de Santiago . All trails converge at the shrine of St. James in the Cathedral in Santiago de Compostela, Spain. Trails spread across several European countries including France and Portugal.

The Camino de Santiago has been a pilgrimage route for over a thousand years. Each year, more than 200, 000 individuals from all over the world walk this 500-mile / 800km trail. Many people still hike the Camino as a religious pilgrimage. However, there are different motivations for doing the Camino de Santiago .

The trail has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers hikers the chance to visit numerous historic churches and monasteries along the way.

8. Bibbulmun Track, Australia

Trail Markers on Bibbulmun trail (credit : Bryce Walker)

A 1,000 km / 600-mile trail that takes adventurers through Western Australia's forests and coastline. The track starts in Kalamunda hills near Perth and ends at Albany on the south coast. Some sections of this trail can be walked as Australian day hikes .

The Bibbulmun Track gets its name from the indigenous name for the prickly banksia shrub which grows along the trail. The path is well-marked with triangular signposts about every 500m.

The trail passes through 50 of Australia's most beautiful national parks and reserves. Walkers should look out for unique wildlife, such as the western ringtail possum.

9. Te Araroa Trail, New Zealand

The Araroa Trail is one of New Zealand’s best multi-day hikes . The 3000 km / 1,864-mile trail spans the entire length of the country. Araroa translates to ‘Long Pathway’ in the Maori language.

This is a relatively new multi-day hike. Several existing routes were included to connect Cape Reinga in the north to the Bluff in the south. The connecting trails can be done in sections.

If you follow the entire Te Araroa trail, you will get to see New Zealand's best features. This includes beaches, forests, volcanoes, mountains lakes, and sand dunes.

10. El Camino Real, Panama

Portobelo, Panama

The most famous long-distance hike in Panama is El Camino Real (The Real Road). It is also known as the ‘Camino de Cruces’. El Camino Real was originally used by the Spanish in the 18th century to transport gold and other treasures from South America to Spain.

The trail starts in Panama City and ends in the town of Portobelo on the Caribbean coast. The hike usually takes 3-5 days and covers a distance of 80 km(50 miles).

Today, the Camino Real is a popular hiking trail for adventurers and nature enthusiasts who want to experience the beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife of Panama. The trail passes through tropical forests, rivers, and hills, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

11. Continental Divide Trail (CDT), USA

The CDT is a 4, 800 km / 3,100-mile epic of a trail that runs the entire length of the United States. One end is at Chihuahua, Mexico, and the other is at the Alberta border with Canada. The CDT follows the Rocky Mountains , which geographically divide the west pacific from the rest of the USA. If you were to walk this entire trail, you would cross 5 states. Namely; Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico. This trek takes more than 5 months.

You should start this trail, or section thereof, around April. If you set off too early in the season you are likely to encounter impassable sections of snow. You will need permits for some sections of the CDT.

Read on for a Hope Pass , part of the Legendary Leadville Trail in Rocky Mountains and an infamous Manitou Incline hike .

Hiking The Alta Via 1. Italy

About the author

Alison Macallister

With a degree in Nature Conservation and experience working with wildlife including the Big 5, Alison used to work as a guide for a 5-star safari reserve in South Africa. Today she is a full time traveller and editor for Mountain IQ. She has travelled and hiked extensively in South America, including many solo hikes in Patagonia, the Cusco region of Peru, Ecuador and Chile.

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22 Epic Long-Distance Hiking Trails Around the World

There are dozens of long-distance trails throughout the world waiting for you to discover. We profile 22 of these hidden gems in epic locations such as Bhutan and Argentina. All trails appearing on this are at least 200 miles long.

1. E1 European Long-Distance Path

The E1 European Long-Distance Path - abbreviated as E1 Path - travels through seven European countries.

Countries: Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy
Distance: 4,960 miles (7,980 km)
Time to complete: up to 12 months
Elevation change: Unknown
Best time to visit: May to September

The E1 is one of 12 European long distance walking paths that is maintained by the European Ramblers Association. The path is relatively new - it was constructed in 2011 and is continuing to be expanded. In 2018, the southern terminus was extended to Sicily in Italy.

Most people hike the path in sections. To date, there are no documented full-length thru-hikes. Both the European Ramblers Association and the Hiking Europe website contain additional details about the trail.

e1 european long-distance path epic trails worldwide

A strenuous hike along the Pyrenees that links the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

Countries: France
Distance: 866km (538mi)
Time to complete: 2 months
Elevation change: 48,000m (157,000ft) elevation gain
Best time to visit: May to June or August to September

Starting at the Atlantic ocean, the GR10 follows the backbone of the Pyrenees mountain range along the French-Spanish border to the Mediterranean Sea. Hikers will experience everything from lush green meadows, dense forests and snow-covered mountain peaks.

Although the trail is well marked, it is wild and remote. Only experienced hikers should consider taking on the steep climbs of this rugged, mountainous terrain. Mountain IQ is an excellent resource for information on the GR10.

3. North-To-South Traverse

Pick your path as you travel from one end of Iceland to the other.

Countries: Iceland
Distance: Approximately 550 km (340 mi)
Time to complete: 3 to 4 weeks
Best time to visit: June to July

Iceland is known for its gorgeous, varied landscape that includes volcanoes, hot springs, deserts, lush green valleys, and snowy mountaintops. The North to South traverse is not a dedicated hiking trail but a cross country trek through a loose collection of primitive roads, unmarked paths, and hiking trails.

Part of this north to south trek takes you through the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and the Laugavegur trail, which is considered to be among the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. The route is mostly flat, but be prepared for high winds and unpredictable weather in Iceland's mostly treeless landscape.

You can learn more about the North-South traverse from online trail journals by those who have completed this trek (e.g. Tucker Prescott or Jonathan Ley ).

north-to-south traverse iceland epic trails worldwide

4. Grand Italian Trail (Sentiero Italia)

Countries: Italy
Distance: Approximately 6166 km (3831 mi)
Best time to visit: March to November

Want to see Italy on foot? Then check out the national trail of Italy, the Grand Italian Trail (Sentiero Italia). It links several smaller footpaths allowing a hiker to cross the Alps while walking the entire length of the country from Trieste to Sardinia. You'll cross snow-capped mountains, visit ancient ruins and travel through vineyards and valleys.

Some of the trails are marked, much of it is not, and you'll need an existing GPS track to keep on the right path. If 6,000K is too long for a single thru-hike, not a problem. The Grand Italian Trail is divided into 368 sections so you can hike it one piece at a time.

You can find a map and GPS data for the Grand Italian Trail at Traildino .

grand italian trail epic trails worldwide

5. Via Alpina (red trail)

Immerse yourself into the Alpine lifestyle by hiking along the backbone of the Alps.

Countries: Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France and Monaco.
Distance: 2600km (1615mi)
Time to complete: 4 to 5 months
Elevation change: 138km (86 miles)
Best time to visit: June till October

Created by both private and public groups in eight alpine countries, the Via Alpina is a network of five international long-distance hiking trails. The longest trail is the Red trail (2600km) which starts in Trieste, Italy and goes all the way to Monaco. The trail network was chosen not for its difficulty, but its cultural and historical significance.

You won't need ice axes, ropes or crampons to travel this route through the Alps, just time and a willingness to be immersed in the Alpine lifestyle. It's a welcoming trail with ample small towns eager to provide a warm bed and hot food to weary travelers.

Visit the Via Alpina website trip planning and trail information.

6. Rota Vicentina

Walk the historical footpaths and dirt roads used by travelers and locals for centuries.

Countries: Portugal
Distance: 450km (280mi)
Time to complete: up to one month
Best time to visit: September to June

The Rota Vicentina is a network of trails in southwest Portugal that extends from Santiago do Cacém to the Cape of São Vicente. It is comprised of two main long-distance trails (Historical Way and Fisherman's Trail) and eight circular routes for those who can't spend as much time on the trail.

Using existing trails and dirt roads, the Rota Vicentina takes you into the mountainous forest, along the coast and through the small villages that dot the region. Besides the local cuisine, the highlight of the Rota Vicentina is the coastal cliffs that provide stunning views of the Atlantic ocean. These cliffs are found on the FIsherman’s Trail section which follows the historic trails used by fisherman who traveled daily from their villages to the ocean to fish.

Visit the Rota Vicentina website for more information.

7. Via Dinarica

Trek the Western Balkans in a trail deemed one of the best in Europe by National Geographic.

Countries: Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Albania
Distance: 2,000km (1,054mi)
Time to complete: 3 to 4 months
Elevation change: 51,815m
Best time to visit: June to September

Decades of conflict made the Balkans a problematic region to explore, but this isolation is quickly disappearing. The Balkans is quickly becoming a hub for eco-tourism thanks in part to the Via Dinarica, deemed to be one of the best hiking trails in Europe.

The primary path is the 1260km White trail, which is marked and has been thru-hiked numerous times since the idea for the trail was first conceived in 2010. The trail connects remote villages along the sharp peaks of the Dinaric Alps and Shar mountain ranges and follows former military routes, ancient trading routes, and shepherding paths.

The Via Dinarica website has a lot of information about the trail, places to stay and things to say when on the trail.

8. Camino De Santiago

Take a spiritual journey following the path the pilgrims walked to the shrine of Saint James.

Countries: France, Spain, Portugal depending on the route
Distance: Varies by route, the Camino Frances is 780km (500 miles)
Time to complete: 3 weeks
Best time to visit: April through September

The Camino De Santiago, known as the Way of Saint James, was one of the essential pilgrimages for Christians in the Middle Ages. The route ends at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela where it is believed that the remains of Saint James are buried. The journey itself is made of several smaller pilgrimage routes all of which end at Santiago.

The most popular course is Camino Frances, which starts at Biarritz, France and travels 500 miles to Santiago, Spain. The route is relatively flat with people walking up to 18km to 25km per day.

The reason why people walk the Camino De Santiago varies, but many use it as a spiritual journey to fellowship with other pilgrims and stop at the many churches along the route. People use bikes, horses and even donkeys to travel the path.

There are several good books about the pilgrimage, including the popular Pilgrim's Guide from John Brierley.

camino de santiago epic trails worldwide

9. Kungsleden

Kungsleden, also known as the King's Trail, is Sweden's longest hiking trail.

Countries: Sweden
Distance: 440 km (270 mi) and three to four weeks
Elevation change: minimum 2500m

Kungsleden is Sweden's longest hiking trail which welcomes hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter. First used in 1928 by the Swedish Tourist Association, the trail connects Abisko in the north and Hemavan in the south. The well-marked route takes you through the scenic Swedish Lapland mountains which include high alpine peaks, old-growth coniferous forests, and lakes, lots of them. It also passes through the Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Europe.

There are huts along the route, about a day apart, that are available without reservation for a small fee. The accommodations are simple - there are bunks and a place to cook food, but there is no electricity or running water. Some huts even sell food and other supplies.

Visit the Swedish Lapland website , the Swedish Tourist Association or Mountain IQ for more information.

10. Wales Coast Path

The world's first footpath that follows the entire coastline of a country.

Countries: Wales
Distance: 1,440km (870mi) and two to three months
Time to complete: 2 to 3 months
Best time to visit: April to September

Developed by the Welsh government along with other local authorities and national parks, the Welsh Coastal path opened in 2012. It begins at the city of Chester in the north and ends at the town of Chepstow in the south. Approximately 20% of the trail follows local roads away from the coast due to landowners who won't allow the path to cross their coastal property.

Most people hike the path in sections, taking time to savor the stunning ocean views, impressive cliffs, and historical sites. Unlike most trails where you encounter woodland animals, the Wales Coast Path allows you to experience the unique flora and fauna found in coastal locations such as beaches, dunes, estuaries, and salt marshes.

Details on the Wales Coast Path can be found on the trail's official website .

11. Jordan Trail

Learn about the culture and history of Jordan as you walk across the country.

Countries: Jordan
Distance: 650 km (400 mi)
Time to complete: 4 to 6 weeks
Best time to visit: February to April

People have been traveling Jordan by foot even before the first centuries B.C when people came to the country for commerce and trade. Now, these same roads are home to the Joran Trail which traverses 52 towns and villages as it winds its way from Um Qais in the North to the Aqaba in the south.

The Jordan trail was first conceived in the 1990s, but it wasn't until the Jordan Trail Association was formed in 1995 that the path was developed in earnest. Now it is being heralded as one of the best tourist destinations by National Geographic and others. The Jordan Trail Association website is the definitive source for trail maps, hiking guides, and current reroutes.

12. Tokai Nature Trail

Japan's first long-distance trail winds leisurely from Tokyo to Osaka.

Countries: Japan
Distance: 1050km (652mi)
Time to complete: 6 to 8 weeks
Elevation change: 38,000m
Best time to visit: April to June

More a nature walk than a remote wilderness hiking trail, the Tokai Nature Trail connects Tokyo's Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park with the Meiji no Mori Mino Quasi-National Park in Osaka. The trail climbs the gentle slopes of the Hokusetu Mountain Range and passes through cultural and historical sites.

The trail, suitable for seasoned hikers as well as families, was deliberately chosen to take people away from highly-traveled tourist locations and bring them into the heart of Japan. Check out the Tokai Walk website and Nomadic Tom’s Rough Guide for further details.

tokai nature trail epic trails worldwide

13. Snowman Trek

One of the toughest treks in the Himalayas crossing 11 high passes in one of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

Countries: Bhutan
Distance: 200 miles
Time to complete: 4 weeks
Elevation change: 48,000 feet elevation gain
Best time to visit: May and Late September to October

Get a taste of Everest and the Himalayan mountains on this 200-mile hike through the country of Bhutan. The trek follows the backbone of the Himalayas along the northern border with Tibet. The trail climbs to 5000 meters providing scenic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Not for the faint of heart, most thru-hikers make the traverse in a group as part of a professionally guided tour. The best way to find out more about the Snowman Trek is to visit guide websites which have itineraries, tour prices and more.

14. Transcaucasian Trail

The Transcaucasian Trail is early in its development eventually will provide a breath-taking hike across the Caucasus mountain range in Eurasia.

Countries: Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.
Distance: 3000km (1864mi proposed)
Time to complete: 4 months

Still under development, the Transcaucasian Trail will be 3000km (1864 miles) in length when it is finally completed. The trail will follow the Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountains in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

The motivation to create the path is dual in purpose - to help conserve land and showcase the natural beauty of the region. It will connect both existing and future national parks and will help to unify the sometimes tumultuous region.

To get a taste of the proposed trial, you can hike several hundred kilometers of trails in the national parks including Lagodekhi National Park, Borjomi National Park, and Dilijan National Park. To learn more about the Transcaucasian Trail and follow its progress, you can visit the Transcaucasian Trail website .

transcaucasian trail epic trails worldwide

15. Great Himalaya Trail

Traverse some of the most beautiful and lofty mountain peaks in the world.

Countries: Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, China
Distance: 4,585km (2,800mi)
Best time to visit: February to April or September to November

As its name implies, the Great Himalaya trail takes you through the heart of the Himalayas through Nepal, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, and Tibet. The trail itself is more of a concept and not a marked, maintained footpath.

You can choose to take the high route that traverses the mountains or a lower passage that travels below peaks on the footpaths between the mountain villages. Visit the Great Himalaya website or Himalayan adventure Labs for additional details on the logistics of attempting this challenging trail.

great himalaya trail GHT epic trails worldwide

North America

16. bruce trail.

The Bruce Trail is Canada's oldest and longest marked hiking trail.

Countries: Ontario, Canada
Distance: 890 km (550 mi)
Best time to visit: April to early November

First conceived in 1959, The Bruce Trail starts in Ontario, Canada just outside Niagara and runs over 500 miles to the end of Tobermory, Ontario. It travels through some of the most populated areas in the Provence, but that doesn't mean it's an urban walk. You’ll hike through quaint towns, traverse dense forests, stand at the edge of lakeside cliffs and marvel at pristine waterfalls.

The Bruce Trail is broken up into nine sections each of which has a subsidiary club. These clubs offer end-to-end hikes of their assigned segments. People who want to hike the entire trail in sections can join these individual guided, group hikes. The Bruce Trail Conservancy maintains the path and is the first place you should look for more information.

South America

17. transpanama trail.

Hike 700 miles across the length of Panama from Costa Rica to Columbia.

Countries: Panama
Distance: 1126km (700mi)

Connecting an existing network of hiking trails and remote roads, the TransPanama Trail covers the length of Panama from the border of Columbia to the border of Costa Rica. It traverses mountains, rainforests and the territories of some of Panama's indigenous people.

The western half of the trail opened in 2009 but funding dried up and the momentum to complete the trail lost its steam. In 2011, Panama resident Rick Morales decided to change all that and set out on the first ever thru-hike from Columbia to Costa Rica. Morales not only hiked the existing trail, but he also mapped the route for the eastern trail. You can read about Morales's first thru-hike on his website. A trail guide is also in the works.

18. Greater Patagonian Trail

The 1,300 mile Greater Patagonian Trail allows you to experience South America at its best.

Countries: Argentina, Chile
Distance: 1300 miles
Elevation change: 58,900 m elevation gain, 59,200 m elevation loss
Best time to visit: December to April

The Greater Patagonian Trail is the longest hiking trail in South America. First mapped in 2013 by Swiss explorer Jan Dudeck and Chilean hiker Meylin Ubilla, the GPT is an amalgam of unmarked hiking trails, horse trails, dirt roads, and rivers. The trail passes through the heart of the Andes into Southern Patagonia. Its route was chosen to reflect the beauty, culture and natural history of the area.

You can hike the entire distance or decide to pack raft down rivers, lakes, and fjords. Visit the GPT wikiexplora to learn more about this unique trail.

19. Drakensberg Grand Traverse

Experience the wild of the South African mountains.

Countries: South Africa
Distance: Up to 240km (150mi) and two to three weeks
Time to complete: 2 to 3 weeks
Elevation change: 10,000m
Best time to visit: September to December (spring) and March to June (fall)

The Drakensberg Grand Traverse (DGT) starts at Sentinel Car Park and finishes at the Bushman’s Neck Border Post, but it isn't a marked hiking trail like the AT. Instead of following a predefined path, you are required to pass through eight checkpoints, some of which are mountain peaks, if you want to claim you completed the DGT. You can choose your route to these checkpoints, but most people straight line them as much as possible.

The terrain is not technical, but the steep ascents and need for strong navigational skills can test even the most experienced hikers. It is an authentic wilderness experience with only a few towns or facilities along the way.

The best sources of information on the trail can be found at the Hiking South Africa website and online journals .

drakensberg grand traverse epic trails worldwide

20. Sir Samuel And Lady Florence Baker Historical Trail

Follow in the footsteps of Sir Samuel Baker and his wife, Lady Florence.

Countries: Uganda, Sudan
Distance: 850km (500mi) and two to three months
Best time to visit: June to August and December to February

The Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Trail has been hailed as one of the best hiking trails in the world, but civil war in the Sudan region has made it impossible to hike this section of the trail. The path was designed to follow the travels of Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker who explored the area in the 1860s and 1870s.

The trail begins in the Sudanese village of Gondokoro, which is located near the Sudan capital of Juba. It travels south to Baker's view overlooking Lake Albert and finally onto Murchison Falls on the Nile River.

Because of conflict in Sudan, the northern part of the trail is closed and not safe for hiking. The Ugandan section of the trail is open and safe for hiking. Information on the Baker Trail is sparse, but the Baker Trail website has additional information on the trail.

Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Trail epic trails worldwide

21. Bibbulmun Track

The walking-only Bibbulmun Track traverses the most beautiful state parks and scenic locations in southwestern Australia.

Countries: Western Australia
Distance: 623 miles
Elevation change: 18,485 m elevation gain

The Bibbulmun Track starts outside Perth in the suburb of Kalamunda and travels to the coastal town of Albany. The trail can be broken down into 58 sections, each of which is a day hike or less. At the end of each section, there is a campsite with a shelter, pit toilet, and other amenities. Most of the trail passes through state forestlands, national parks, and other preserves. The track is well maintained, well traveled and well-marked with the yellow Waugal, a symbol for a dominant spirit of the native Noongar people.

The Bibbulmun Track website has all the details you need to know about Australia's long-distance trail.

22. Te Araroa

Countries: New Zealand
Distance: 3,000km (1,900mi)
Time to complete: 3 to 6 months
Best time to visit: September to April

One of the newer long distance hiking paths, the Te Araroa trail officially opened in 2011. Maori for ‘Long Pathway,’ the Te Araroa lets you experience the best New Zealand has to offer. You walk through lush forests, follow country roads and tackle challenging scree while soaking in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world which includes sandy beaches, lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and glacial lakes.

There is an official guidebook, but you'll have to rely on GPS and your navigation skills as you follow the sometimes marked trail. There are no permits, and no fees are required but the Te Araroa Trust that oversees the path asks for a donation of the Te Araroa Trust requests a donation of $500 per person for those hiking the full trail, $250 for those walking on a single island only, and lesser amounts for section hikers.

The Te Araroa Trust website has all the information you need to hike the trail.

About Kelly Hodgkins

About greenbelly.

After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Chris Cage created Greenbelly to provide fast, filling and balanced meals to backpackers. Chris also wrote How to Hike the Appalachian Trail .

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This Is the Longest Walkable Distance on Earth

Got three spare years to make the trek?

Pilgrimages like the Camino de Santiago or the Appalachian Trail are short by comparison.
The real-life walk would be grueling, filled with scary animals and diversely bad weather.

Interesting Engineering has the latest reminder of what we believe is the longest walkable single distance on Earth, from South Africa to the far northeastern Russian city of Magadan. At no point would you need to use even a small boat to ferry across a river, because the entire route is made up of roads with bridges.

To go further into northeastern Russia, you’d need to cross through terrain that isn’t currently walkable. (Full disclosure: Google Maps’ suggested walking route between the same two cities includes a ferry trip, but the route’s original popularizer manually pulled it to cross a bridge instead.) The total trip is over 14,000 miles.

A real person walking this route at a sustainable pace would need about three years to complete the trip. They’d need to pack a variety of things or, like in the award-winning game 80 Days , sell their stuff and buy new stuff along the way: desert gear, rain gear, and even body armor for the sections through anarchic or war-torn regions like South Sudan. There’s a little bit of everything along the way, from extremely dangerous rainforest animals to near the coldest inhabited place on Earth in Russia. (Remote Bilibino, home to the smallest nuclear plant on Earth, is just a three hour flight even farther northeast after Magadan.)

People around the world do walking pilgrimages for purposes that are often spiritual. The most popular route on the Camino de Santiago , which leads to the shrine to St. James the Apostle in the Santiago de Compostela cathedral, is 500 miles long. That the hypothetical longest walk on Earth makes this daunting trip sound short is, well, blasphemous. The Appalachian Trail that runs vertically along the eastern edge of the U.S. is about 2,000 miles long, and while it’s not an explicitly religious or spiritual journey, the caretaking organization calls it a “sacred space” for its reach to people and for its preserved natural beauty.

The longest known ongoing religious pilgrimage is by a man named Arthur Blessitt, who’s walked over 40,000 miles since 1969. His walk isn’t contiguous, and has therefore included all seven continents, where he has carried a large cross and preached his Christian beliefs. Now 79 years old, Blessitt has walked in every nation on Earth during his 50-year walking career. For someone who’s walked in Antarctica, the inhabited north of Russia may be doable. And he’s already walked in the nations along the 14,000 walk from South Africa to Magadan.

At the same time, the rugged single journey is likely through rougher terrain, and Blessitt’s pace during his documented Guinness World Record-setting walk (as of 2013) averaged out to just over 3 miles a day. (In Stephen King's The Long Walk , contestants in a dystopian race must stay above 4 miles per hour.) At that pace, the longest contiguous walk would take him another 13 years, with a lot of downtime each day and requiring 4,800 places to crash. In much of the U.S., you wouldn’t find a legal place to camp or even park a car overnight every few miles, let alone a legal place to relieve yourself in public.

Caroline Delbert is a writer, avid reader, and contributing editor at Pop Mech. She's also an enthusiast of just about everything. Her favorite topics include nuclear energy, cosmology, math of everyday things, and the philosophy of it all.

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Best long-distance trails & treks around the world

Plan for a longer holiday, put your mind onto 'airplane mode' and seek out these remote places – only accessible by foot – at a more relaxed pace to truly connect with the wilderness.

It's all about travelling less and seeing more . Seeing more of the beautiful wildlife, admiring natural landscapes few others ever will, interacting with local communities who rarely see westerners and setting yourself on a path of self discovery and personal achievement, all while leaving a small environmental footprint on your BIG trekking adventure.

Experience more of the destination within a destination on these world-class long-distance walking holidays which will see you switching off and reinvigorating yourself in some of the world's most remote and sublime wilderness locations.

Bhutan Snowman Trek

Undertaken by only a handful of trekkers each season, it’s our most challenging Bhutan trek.

How long is it? Around 250km Duration of trek: 27 days Difficulty: Graded 8 – Exploratory trekking. Designed for experienced adventurers seeking a challenge. Start and end point: Paro

What makes it special? Crossing 11 passes over 4500 metres in some of the most isolated regions of Bhutan. You’ll absorb magnificent mountain views, explore hidden valleys and bask in the serenity of high-altitude lakes. You may even encounter fresh tracks from the elusive snow leopard like our 2019 trekkers! When to go: October. This is an ideal time to appreciate Bhutan’s autumnal colours and experience sublime mountain views. A number of cultural and religious events occur during October, including the special Jomolhari festival.

Transcaucasian Trail

Be one of the first to experience the recently opened Transcaucasian trail brimming with history and scenic brilliance.

How long is it? Once completed, it will extend more than 3,000km in length through Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia, connecting more than 20 national parks and protected areas. Duration of trek: While the full route is still being developed, you can trek sections of the trail in Armenia and Georgia over 18 days, the only two countries adequately mapped so far. Difficulty: Graded 5 – Moderate. Designed for those with reasonable fitness and health and who have a relatively active lifestyle.

What makes it special? The Caucasus is among the most inaccessible mountains in the world and the newly opened trail is anticipated by hiking enthusiasts as the next big thing in trekking. Delight in the scenic panoramas of mountains, rivers and glaciers that await you in Georgia, or head to historic Armenia along the Caucasian Silk route exploring ancient monasteries and stunning mountain landscapes. When to go: May to September

Ultimate K2 Trek

The Karakoram range of Pakistan offers celestial isolation amid a constant backdrop of towering peaks and breathtaking glacial landscapes.

Duration of trek: 25 days Start and end point: Skardu, Gilgit-Baltistan region Difficulty: Graded 8 – Exploratory trekking & entry level mountaineering. Designed for experienced trekkers comfortable travelling in adverse weather conditions, preferably at altitude. Expect remote and poorly defined trails and challenging moraine walking.

What makes it special? Find yourself surrounded by the highest concentration of 8,000-metre peaks on the planet. From the "Throne Room of the Mountain Gods" to the Baltoro glacier (one of the longest glaciers in the world outside the polar regions), it's not hard to see why Pakistan's Karakoram ranges have captured the imagination of trekkers and mountaineers for decades.

In addition to trekking to the base of the world’s second highest peak (8611m), the legendary Gondogoro Pass promises one of the most dramatic mountain vistas anywhere on Earth. Our K2 trekking expedition is one of the finest high altitude scenic treks on offer with few travellers in sight.

When to go: June

Nepal’s Great Himalaya Trail

From east to west, encounter some of the wildest and most remote mountain environments imaginable.

How long is it? Winding between the largest mountains and remotest communities on the planet, the Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) will ultimately connect five Asian countries (Bhutan, China, India, Nepal and Pakistan) spanning 4500km.

Duration of trek: 5 months to complete the full Nepal traverse, or trek sections ranging from 18 to 34 days. Start point: Kanchengjunga, Nepal's far east | End point: Yari Valley, Nepal's far west Difficulty: Graded 9 – Intermediate Mountaineering Expedition. Designed for experienced multi-day trekkers who have hiked at altitude. Basic mountaineering skills are recommended as is a love for the outdoors and perhaps most importantly, a positive attitude.

What makes it special? A true exploratory experience, it takes in spectacular vistas of all of Nepal’s 8,000-metre peaks, whilst giving trekkers the opportunity to experience remote cultures in hidden corners of the country and spreading the benefits of tourism in isolated communities.

When to go: The full GHT departs in February and concludes in July.

Find out more

Larapinta Trail

One of Australia’s ‘Great Walks’, the Larapinta Trail is one of the world's most remarkable desert walks.

How long is it? 223km Duration of trek: 14 days from end to end. Broken up into 12 sections, you can also choose to trek certain sections ranging from 3 days to 12 days. Start point: Old Telegraph Station, Alice Springs | End point: Mt Sonder Difficulty: Graded 6 – Moderate to Challenging. Designed for seasoned walkers who can manage to walk around 6 to 12 hours a day. On some days, you’ll be walking up to 30kms.

What makes it special? Follow the spine of the West MacDonnel Ranges to trek over remote ridges and canyons, cool off in beautiful waterholes, walk through beautiful river red gums and marvel at vividly-coloured mineral ochre pits.

One of the biggest surprises about trekking across Australia’s Red Centre is the diversity of its terrain and the wildlife you’ll encounter. From endless desert plains to colourful palettes of yellow, purple, red and blue wildflowers, the area is home to more than 767 species of flora and over 180 unique species of birds.

Considered a highlight is the exhilarating trek up Mt Sonder (1380m) – one of the highest peaks west of the Great Dividing Range – where you are greeted with an unforgettable sunrise.

When to go: The trekking season runs between April and September when walking conditions are most favourable with clearer skies and splendid stargazing opportunities. Hit the trail in April, May or September to witness wildflowers in full bloom, or enjoy cooler and more favourable temperatures between June to August.

View all trail walks

John Muir Trail

Considered one of the finest hikes in North America, this iconic US trail traverses the stunning Sierra mountain range from Mt Whitney to Yosemite.

How long is it? Around 340km Duration of trek: 23 days Difficulty: Graded 7 – Challenging. Designed for experienced adventurers who have completed multi-day hikes with a full pack (up to 20kgs). Days can involve up to 10 hours of exercise (hiking around 10-24 km per day) in very remote and rugged terrain. Start point: Cottonwood Lakes, California | End point: Tuolumne Meadows in Yosemite National Park, California

What makes it special? Cross 3000 and 4000-metre mountain passes, walking among alpine peaks, glacier-gouged canyons, forested valleys and crystal-clear lakes. Sections of the trail will see you venturing far off the beaten track and over the course of the trip, you will have gained over 12000 metres in ascents (averaging about 600m per day) – an epic yet rewarding challenge to add to your trekking wishlist.

When to go: July to September

Jordan Trail

Cross Jordan on foot along this recently established trail dubbed the ‘Inca Trail of the Middle East’.

How long is it? 650km and a 40-day trekking route crossing the entire country. You can experience a taster of some of the best parts of the Jordan Trail on our highlights trek . Duration of highlights trek: 10 days Difficulty: Graded 5 – Moderate. Designed for walkers who are comfortable trekking in warm conditions and up and down hills. Expect up to 6-9 hours of walking a day at a steady pace, often on unmarked trails. Start point and end point: Amman

What makes it special? Let dramatic desert landscapes, striking cliffs and rugged ‘wadis’ unfold on this cross-country trek. The full trail stretches from Egypt to Aqaba and on to Damascus, incorporating ancient paths to archaeological monuments, including the Red Rose City of Petra and historical ruins of Jerash and Ajlun, which showcase the Kingdom’s illustrious past.

Those short on time can experience some of the best and lesser known parts of the Jordan Trail on the highlights tour – from the forested Ajlun Reserve in the north to the crystal waters of the Red Sea in the south. The hike up Jabal Um Ad Dami, Jordan’s highest peak, is a climatic way to end the trek with majestic summit views of Wadi Rum’s Mars-like landscapes across to Saudi Arabia.

When to go: March to June, September to November

Canada's East Coast Trail

Explore the outermost reaches of North America on one of the world's top coastal hikes.

How long is it? Around 336km Duration of highlights trek: 10 days hiking almost 89km Difficulty: Graded 5 – Moderate. Designed for walkers who have a good level of fitness. A bonus if you enjoy exploring rugged coastlines. Start and end point of highlights self-guided trek: St. John's, Newfoundland

What makes it special? Enjoy ocean splendours from the shore while traversing towering cliffs and headlands, sea stacks, coves, and deep fjords. Canada's East Coast Trail is a series of 25 wilderness paths along Newfoundland's dramatic and rugged Avalon Peninsula; ranked the world's top coastal destination in 2016 by National Geographic.

Along the way, enjoy picturesque bay-side communities, abandoned settlements, ecological reserves, and a special lighthouse picnic. There is also a real possibility of spotting whales, puffins, moose, or even icebergs. Discover this exciting part of Canada on foot on one of our many walks that take in sections of the East Coast Trail.

When to go: June to October

View self-guided hike

Australia's Great Tasmanian Traverse

An epic adventure walking, rafting, flying and sailing across Tasmania from north to south – this is the ultimate bucket list adventure Down Under.

How long is it? Approximately 300km Duration of adventure: 39 days Difficulty: Graded 7 – Challenging. Designed for healthy and fit adventurers. All adrenaline-seekers apply! Treks may involve carrying a full pack between 18 and 22kg. Be prepared for potential variable weather conditions. Start point: Launceston | End point: Hobart

What makes it special? Okay, it's not purely a walk but it is definitely worthy of this list. The traverse combines four of Tasmania's greatest multi-day treks (which reach the summit of its highest and most iconic peaks) and a thrilling rafting experience on the iconic Franklin River, rated by many as the world's greatest wilderness rafting trip. Explore Australia's island state from the quiet rural communities of the north to the wild and isolated reaches of the south, completing the Coast to Cradle Trail, Overland Track , Frenchman's Cap Trek , Franklin River Rafting and South Coast Track .

Encapsulating the pristine scenery that Tassie is so well known for, the five-week expedition takes in Australia's wilderness frontiers which cross remote parts that have remained untouched for centuries.

When to go: Departs February

View expedition

Trekking the foothills of Nepal | Lachlan Gardiner

Comment ( 1 )

I would like to present a Transmantiqueira Trail (TMTQ) which is the main long-distance trail in Brazil. It is a system of interconnected trails that together sum up to approximately 1.200 km (745 miles) in the Serra da Mantiqueira. It crosses 43 municipalities of the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro and Minas Gerais, 36 protected areas privileging the passage through tracks already consolidated and visiting the greatest number of attractions along its course. It comes with the intention of integrating the ICMBio´s Brazilian Long Course System, adding like national and international experiences of systems like this one. The TMTQ will contribute to the environment conservation, the integration of man and nature in a living relationship with the ecosystem, with the customs and local history through the communities´s socioeconomic development and their surroundings, as well as the orderly and sustainable turism in Mantiqueira. TMTQ is located in Serra da Mantiqueira, one of the most important mountain ranges in Brazil, considered the largest producer of regional biodiversity and of great ecological relevance. Studies carried out by IUCN and published in the journal Science, classify it as the 8th most irreplaceable area on the planet.

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Test your endurance on the world's 10 best treks

Sep 14, 2021 • 11 min read

A walker on the Routeburn Track rising high above Lake Mackenzie.

Supersized landscapes along New Zealand's Routeburn Track © Philip Lee Harvey / Lonely Planet

Ask ten experienced hikers to nominate the best treks in the world and they'll give you ten different answers. Some treks are epic because of the scenery. Some are epic because of the almost superhuman levels of effort and endurance required to reach the end point. For some trekkers, it's all about the destination; for others, it's the journey and the camaraderie along the trail.

But the world's top treks all have one thing in common–a sense of mission that transforms the simple act of walking into a life-affirming expedition. With this in mind, we've compiled our own list of the world's top treks, from jungle trails to breathless tracks through the mountains of Nepal . All require a sturdy pair of lungs and a fit pair of legs, but the experience of trekking is its own reward; we promise you'll still be talking about these hikes decades later!

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Top Tips for Trekkers

Before you load up your backpack with trekking socks and Kendal mint cake, give some thought to the infrastructure on the route you plan to conquer. Some treks require total self-sufficiency, sleeping under canvas and purifying water as you go; other routes have refuges or rustic teahouses every step of the way. Here are some of the key considerations:

Travel light: every extra gram will weigh you down on the trails; if it isn't essential, leave it behind.
Respect your feet: boots offer more support, but all-terrain trainers are lighter and dry more quickly after a soaking.
Protect your knees: trekking poles can help control the knee-crushing descents that are a feature of pretty much every trek.
Climb slowly : Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) can kill, so ascend slowly and take rest days to acclimatize on any trek above 2,500m in elevation.
Heed the weather: when treks go wrong, it's normally because of the weather, so check the forecasts; if conditions look bad, stop somewhere safe and sit it out, rather than pushing on over the next pass.
Be prepared: don't launch straight from the sofa to the summit–warm up with gentler walks, hikes and runs to get your body used to the exertion.
Plan ahead: many trekking routes require a permit and advance booking for lodges and camp sites; for some routes, you need to book months ahead.

Panoramic view of Mount Everest from Kala Patthar with two tourists on the way to Everest base camp.

Everest Base Camp, Nepal

Best trek for: would-be mountaineers

Distance: 80 miles (130km) round trip Duration: 2 weeks Level: moderate

Climbing to 18,193 feet (5,545m) at its highest point, the 2-week trek to Everest Base Camp is Nepal 's best-loved trek, with 8849m Sagarmatha (Mt Everest) rising ahead like a petrified giant. Tracing winding river valleys and the creaking mass of the Khumbu glacier, this mighty mission visits mountain monasteries, soaring lookouts and precariously balanced Sherpa villages, with gruelling days of altitude gain that will test your muscles and endurance to breaking point.

It's not all hard work though. The trekking infrastructure is unparalleled: porters and guides wait on arrival at Lukla's tiny mountain airstrip, cosy teahouses provide warm beds and nourishing plates of dal bhat (lentils and rice) along the entire route, and side trails open up a mountain playground of summit ascents and high pass crossings for a taste of real mountaineering. Sure, the trails are mobbed in season, but the sense of camaraderie amongst trekkers is hard to beat.

The golden rule, however, is respect the altitude. Acute mountain sickness is a risk if you rush, so take it slow and steady and pause for the recommended rest days to let your body catch up with the elevation.

A woman with a backpack stands on a hilltop along the GR20 trail with rocky mountain peaks visible beyond her

2. GR20, Corsica, France

Best trek for: people who love challenges Distance: 104 miles (168km) round trip Duration: 15 days Level: difficult

This character-building slog through Corsica is legendary for the diversity of landscapes it traverses, and for the level of grit it requires from trekkers who brave its rugged trails. There are forests, granite moonscapes, windswept craters, glacial lakes, torrents, peat bogs, maquis, snow-capped peaks, plains and névés (stretches of ice formed from snow) to conquer, and the tough terrain weeds out all but the most dedicated hikers.

Created in 1972, the GR20 links the town of Calenzana, in the Balagne, with Conca, north of Porto Vecchio, but the thrills don’t come easy. The path is rocky, uneven and frequently steep, with crossings over rickety bridges and exposed scrambles over slippery rock faces and loose, skittering scree–all part of the fun! You'll be drawing water from springs and sleeping in rustic mountain refuges, but two weeks later, you'll be able to tell the world you conquered Europe's toughest trail.

3. Inca Trail, Peru

Best hike for modern-day explorers.

Distance: 20 miles (33km) round trip Duration: 4-5 days Level: moderate

The 20-mile (33km) trail to the 15th-century Inca citadel of Machu Picchu was used for centuries before it was brought to global attention when explorer Hiram Bingham 'discovered' the route in 1911. Today, the secret is definitely out; the trail to Peru 's most famous ruin is packed with backpackers, but with giddying views of high cloud forests and Machu Picchu waiting ahead like a beacon, we suspect you won't mind.

The trail climbs to 7,972 feet (2,430m) from the Sacred Valley , winding its way up, down and around mountains, and crossing three high passes en route. As a consequence of its popularity, the number of hikers permitted each day is restricted to just 200 people to protect Peru's not so lost 'lost city'. The result is a more tranquil experience for those fortunate enough to get permits, but hikers should still take extra care to make sustainable choices when visiting .

4. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Best trek for: snow in the tropics Distance: 23–56 miles (37-90km) Duration : 5–9 days Level: moderate

Okay, it's the favorite trek of fundraisers everywhere, and an almost obligatory trip for visitors to East Africa, but the week-long ascent of Africa's highest mountain is still an epic undertaking. From the moment you first spy its misty prominence rising above the dusty plains, you'll know that Kilimanjaro simply has to be climbed. Lions and elephants may mill around at its base, but the summit is snow-capped and desolate, and lofty enough to bring a risk of altitude sickness at 19,340 feet (5,895m).

There are seven recognized routes to the top, and trekkers can complete the ascent in anything from 5 to 9 days, with longer treks being recommended to reduce the risk of AMS. The final stage usually starts before dawn, reaching the summit as the first light of morning erupts across a vast sweep of African savanna. In practice, nearly two thirds of trekkers opt for the Marangu (6 days) or Machame (7 days) routes on the south side of the mountain.

5. Kalalau Trail, Hawaii

Best trek for: sea views Distance: 11 miles (18km) each way Duration: 2 days Level: moderate

When asked to pick the best treks in the US, most reach for hikes along the rim of the Grand Canyon, or the mobbed trails that climb to the summits of El Capitan and Half Dome in Yosemite National Park . However, we prefer to choose something a bit more off-piste. Linking Keʻe Beach and the Kalalau Valley on the north shore of Kauaʻi , the beautiful Kalalau trail follows a towering cliff wall dripping with tropical foliage to reach an overnight stop at a splendidly remote Hawaiian beach.

The route along the Nā Pali Coast starts out easy, but gets progressively more challenging on steep dirt paths; the reward comes in the form of elemental views over primordial valleys, thundering waterfalls, secluded beaches and the churning waters of the Pacific Ocean. There's a definite Lost World feel, and a bit of caution is required, as people have fallen from the track or been washed away by sudden flash floods.

Colourful Buddhist prayer flags above Leh

6. Markha Valley Trek, Ladakh, India

Best trek for: spontaneous trekkers Distance :50 miles (80km) Duration: 6-7 days Level: moderate

Fewer people trek on the Indian side of the world’s mightiest mountain range, but those that do are rewarded with views to rival anything in Nepal, Tibet or Pakistan. There are spectacular treks all over the Indian Himalaya, from the breathless Goecha La trek in Sikkim to pilgrimage treks to remote mountain temples in Uttarakhand and Kashmir , but for our rupee, the best trekking country of all is in lofty Ladakh , crossing high-altitude deserts in the rain-shadow of the high Himalaya.

The Markha Valley trek strains for a week across a wonderfully desolate moonscape, circling south from Leh through the jagged ridges that flank the south bank of the Indus River before emerging near the famous Buddhist gompa (monastery) at Hemis . Best of all, no complex planning is required; you can reach the trailhead by bus from Leh, crossing the river in a dangling basket and stopping at whitewashed teahouses in timeless Buddhist villages along the trail.

7. Routeburn Track, New Zealand

Best trek for: fans of big landscapes Distance: 20 miles (32km) Duration: 3-4 days Level: moderate

New Zealand ’s South Island is as alpine as you can get without actually being in the Alps, and the 3-day Routeburn Track is one of the best ways to cross this pristine natural wonderland. This is a trail for fans of big vistas and open skies, following glacier-carved fjords, truncated valleys and rugged ridges through the plunging landscapes of two stunning national parks: Fiordland and Mt Aspiring.

The preferred route runs from the Routeburn Shelter (north of Queenstown) to Milford Road, with overnight stops in spectacularly located campgrounds. Highlights include the views from Harris Saddle and Conical Hill, and chilly dips in spring-fed mountain tarns. The main challenge for this popular hike is securing a place among the limited numbers who are allowed at any one time–make bookings well ahead through the NZ Department of Conservation's Great Walks booking site .

View from the crater rim of Mount Rinjani

8. Gunung Rinjani, Indonesia

Best trek for: early risers Distance: 15 miles (24km) Duration: 2 days Level: moderate

There simply has to be a Southeast Asian volcano hike on the list, and for our money, it's Indonesia's Gunung Rinjani . While Lombok 's blissful beaches simmer at sea level, the island climbs to a breathless height of 12,224 feet (3,726m) at the summit of this enormous lake-capped volcano, which still periodically rumbles into life, most recently in 2016.

Trekking to the summit of Gunung Rinjani is up there with hiking the Himalaya as one of Asia's favorite adventures. To make the best of the views, the final push to the top starts in the dark, in order to gain the crater rim as first light pushes back the gloom, revealing the crater lake and its sinister cinder cones like a lost valley of the dinosaurs.

Girl trail running in Chamonix around the Chesery lake (Lac des Cheserys). In the background many mountains are visible.

9. The Haute Route, France-Switzerland

Best trek for: yodellers Distance: 125 miles (200km) Duration :14 days Level: difficult

Leading from Chamonix in France through the southern Valais to Zermatt in Switzerland , the 2-week-long Walkers' Haute Route trek traverses some of the highest and most eye-popping scenery accessible anywhere in the Alps. Hiking here is a summertime endeavour, tracing a different course to the famous winter Haute Route for ski-tourers. Every stage will test your endurance, with ‘pass hopping’ that demands a high level of fitness on many sections of the walk.

So why put your body through all this exertion? The mountain views, obviously! Some days pass through yodel-worthy alpine meadows, while others struggle over glacier-carved outcrops guarded by mountain giants. And with this being northern Europe, the infrastructure along the way is excellent, with hotels, gites d’etape (rest shelters), auberges (inns) and mountain refuges dotted all along the route. You'll appreciate a warm bed and a hot meal as you tackle over 46,000 feet (14,000m) of elevation gain.

10. The Torres del Paine Circuit, Patagonia, Chile

Best trek for :photographers Distance: 85 miles (136km) Duration: 9 days Level: difficult

Many visitors to Chile 's Torres del Paine National Park draw up short when they see the scale of the terrain and opt for the shorter 'W Trek', but we recommend following the full 9-day 'O Trek' circuit, to soak up the sheer variety of landscapes in this magnificent wilderness reserve. As you follow the trail from Las Torres, you'll pass some of the world's most photogenic vistas: crystal-clear rivers, sculpted mountains, open grasslands, old-growth forests, deep and silent lakes and the icy tongue of Grey Glacier.

That's a lot of variety per trekking mile, but you need to plan ahead as only 80 trekkers are permitted on each section of track at any given time, and camping sites and refugios are in heavy demand. Make bookings with the companies operating the lodges and camping areas months in advance if you hope to secure a slot during the busy November to March trekking season.

You might also like: 8 of the world's most epic hikes Trekking to K2 base camp in Pakistan: everything you need to know See gushing waterfalls and hidden hot springs on these 13 top Iceland hikes

This article was first published in November 2010.

This article was first published August 2019 and updated September 2021

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Salkantay offers an alternative route to Machu Picchu

13 of the best treks in the world

Covering mountains, nations, coastlines and more, the best treks in the world are not for the faint-hearted

Don’t let the dictionary fool you. A trek doesn’t necessarily need to be a long, arduous journey. Sometimes, a trek can be a long walk into a brave new world with the most beautiful views for inspiration. Yes, the word ‘long’ is ubiquitous, but these treks are about the journey and the things we learn along the way. The best treks in the world are incredible experiences, covering all continents . All except Antarctica , although you can walk across that too, if you are up to the task. Maybe stick to these magnificent trails first, where every drop of sweat is earned and worth it. Just be sure to pack enough provisions. Oh, and wear the right shoes, please.

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Best treks in the world

1. Appalachian Trail

Long treks don’t come much more famous than the Appalachian Trail. The trail between Springer Mountain (Georgia) and Mount Katahdin (Maine) passes through a whopping 14 states and covers around 3,500km, making it one of the longest walking-only trails on the planet. Undertaking the whole thing is one heck of a task, although more than two million walkers take in part of it annually. Immortalised in Bill Bryson’s ‘A Walk in the Wood’, the Appalachian Trail is the big daddy of American treks.

2. Via Dinarica

One day, someone will organise a Pan-Balkan walking route that follows the old Tito Youth Relay of Yugoslavia, but the various Via Dinarica hikes are more than enough for now. This network of long-distance hikes covers much of the Dinaric Alps and is split into numerous routes, with the 1,260km White Trail the most popular. The trek starts in Slovenia and ends in Albania, taking in many of the region’s highest peaks.

3. Mount Elgon

What a beautiful trek this is. There are longer treks in Africa, and there are definitely more famous ones, but something about the six-day mountain trek to the top of Mount Elgon, on the border of Uganda and Kenya, really sparkles. The route is just about as lush as it gets, and the views from the top are spellbinding. It has the largest volcanic base in the world, although Mt Elgon hasn’t erupted for about ten million years.

4. Wales Coast Path

In opening its coast path in 2012, Wales became the first nation on the planet to launch a dedicated route covering an entire country’s coastline. Wales is not a big nation (in terms of geography, obviously), but the walk from Queensferry to Chepstow is a fair old amble: 870 miles of rugged hills and darling seaside towns. The path is divided into eight sections, so you don’t necessarily have to do it all, but there is something extremely tempting about being able to say you have walked around an entire country. If the 870 miles aren’t enough, consider tagging the Offa’s Dyke path at the end, which traverses the border between Wales and England.

5. Salkantay

Trekking to Machu Picchu is a rite of passage for visitors to South America, but the Salkantay trek allows hikers to visit the famous citadel via altogether-less-crowded circumstances. Salkantay is the highest peak in the Vilcabamba range and is a total stunner in its own right, and the five-day trek is a moderately difficult one that eschews famous sites in favour of gorgeous vistas. It is a win-win, really.

6. Pacific Crest Trail

The Appalachian Trail takes care of the east, but what of America’s wild west? The Pacific Crest Trail covers 4,270km of immensely scenic ground, from Campo in California up to Manning Park across the border in Canada’s British Columbia. It takes around six months to walk the whole thing, a mountainous task that hasn’t been completed by many. More people have climbed Everest, for reference.

7. Annapurna Circuit Trek

A whole host of routes await those looking to trek Nepal’s famous Annapurna Circuit. The Base Camp Trek usually takes between 15 and 20 days, taking you through tumbling terrain past charming villages and darling lodges. The views are endless and all-encompassing, and the circuit doubles up as a cultural trail. Pay your respects, pay attention and get trekking.

8. Tour du Mont Blanc

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a round-trip stroll that usually takes around 11 days, depending on health and ability. This isn’t an easy trek by any stretch of the imagination, but the views on offer make it worth putting one step in front of the other. Most walkers start in the Chamonix Valley, dipping into Italy and Switzerland before returning to France for the second half.

9. Tiger’s Nest

The facts don’t tell the whole tale of the Tiger’s Nest trek in Bhutan. A moderate-to-difficult trail, the whole thing should take between three and five hours, depending on your pace and skill level. The awe-inspiring sight at the end of this trek transcends technical preparation and time. Primarily known as Paro Taktsang, this seventeenth-century monastery started life as a meditation cave many centuries earlier and is the most important jewel in this glittering crown.

10. Tiger Leaping Gorge

Another tiger-themed trek in Asia, China’s Tiger Leaping Gorge trek is one of the most beautiful and challenging in the country. It’ll take a couple of days and requires a lot of strength, skill and mental fortitude. A stroll up and down the Wall this is not. There is plenty to love along the way, from a view of Shangri-La to a beautiful vista over the Jinsha River Canyon. The whole thing covers around 22km.

11. Larapinta Trail

Australia has several stunning treks, from the wilds of the Heysen Trail to the lure of circumnavigating Fraser Island, but the extended Larapinta Trail in the Northern Territory wins out. Covering 223km from east to west, the trail is a study in isolation from Alice Springs to Mount Sonder; a moderate to difficult walk that takes in an incredible range of Aboriginal sacred sites. Don’t do this one in the Aussie summer; unless you happen to be a camel.

12. W Trek

The most famous hiking route in the Torres del Paine, the W Trek, affords hardy walkers an incredible view of the famous granite towers that provide its moniker. Hiking the trail is a one-way ticket to the best that Chilean Patagonia offers, a veritable conveyor belt of stunning views and vistas that make every kilometre worth it. The relatively low altitude of the route makes it an accessible trek, with only a minimum hiking experience required.

13. Atlas Mountains

The Atlas Mountains are just around the corner from magical Marrakech, but they might as well be in another dimension. The chaos of the city is a world away from the serenity of these mountains, and there’s no better way to clear your head than by trekking high into the sky. Some of the remote villages here are incredible time machines that transport you further from the hustle and bustle of the city, making an Atlas Mountains trek a must for any hiker in the area. Arrive in good shape and get ready for a three-day trek to the top of tranquillity.

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25 Best Long-Distance Hiking Trails Around The World

The world is full of wonderful areas to hike, so much so that it can be overwhelming where to choose for your next long-distance trek. From the volcanic terrain around the Ring of Fire to the peaks of Central Asia and the alpine trails of Europe and North America — how do you know what you should select? There are numerous hiking trails to choose from, so we're helping you narrow down the list. Get ready to pack your bags and lace up your hiking shoes — here are our picks for the top 25 long-distance hikes around the world.

Kepler Track, New Zealand

One of New Zealand's "Great Walks," this loop trail is just over 32 miles in total and typically takes three to four days to complete, depending on your pace. The Kepler Track is located in Fiordland National Park on the South Island and takes you through thickly forested trails with views of Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri.

Keep in mind the "Great Walks season" lasts from October and April and requires booking huts or campsites in advance. This is considered the most ideal period for trekking conditions, however, it is possible to complete the path in the off-season. Just be prepared for snow, limited sunlight, and potential ice. It's recommended that only experienced hikers attempt this trek outside of the season.

Pacific Crest Trail, U.S.

Made famous by Cheryl Strayed's book and movie starring Reese Witherspoon, the 2,600-mile trek from the Canadian to Mexican border along the U.S. West Coast is not for the faint of heart. Hiking through seven national parks, from SoCal deserts to the peaks of the Pacific Northwest, makes every day an adventure on the PCT!

As the trail traverses high mountains, deserts, and everything in between there isn't an ideal time of the year that's applicable to the entire route. However, in general, the summer and early fall are considered the best, as snow, which often covers the trail in winter, will have mostly melted. Remember to bring plenty of water on the arid stretches. It's recommended to allow about five months to complete the full route and don't be surprised if you meet a few four-legged friends as the trail is equestrian friendly.

El Camino de Santiago, Spain (and France and Portugal)

The Camino is the most famous long-distance walk in Europe with hundreds of thousands descending on it each year. The walk dates back to medieval times when it was a pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Contrary to popular belief, the trail is actually a series of paths that stretch as far as France and Portugal, with numerous starting points and lengths. Many of the routes are also considered UNESCO heritage sites in their own right. The most popular is the 480-mile Camino Frances (also called the French Way), but you can choose shorter or longer options.

Walkers who walk at least 60 miles of a route will receive a Pilgrim Passport. You'll receive stamps along the way to go toward earning a Compostela Credential certificate at the end of your journey. The best times of year to hike the Camino are in the spring from April to June and in early fall from September to October. The weather in southern Europe during these months will be pleasant, but not too hot. Due to the popularity, it's best to plan and book accommodation at least a few months before you depart.

Kungsleden, Sweden

In the far north of Swedish Lapland is a 240-mile route from Lake Tärnasjön to Hemavan. The hike's name translates to "The King's Way" as it starts at what was once the king's favorite fishing lake, and it's now one of the most popular trails in the country.

Cobbled together from various ski and footpaths through Sweden 's most breathtaking mountain landscapes, you'll feel like you're on another planet (or perhaps on a visit to Narnia!). Summer is the best season for hikers. From June to mid-September conditions are mostly friendly and cabins along the way are open for weary travelers, with supplies available to buy.

Grand Italia Trail (Sentioro Italia)

Italy is always a favorite destination among travelers, but most opt for train journeys, road trips, or ferry crossings. However, one of the best ways to see the country is by foot. In 1983, the Sentiero Italia Association came up with the idea to put together the ultimate Italian hiking trail, from the islands and boot all the way to the mountainous northern regions. It took a few decades, but now hikers can follow the Sentioro Italia from the Slovenian border and end in Sicily.

At just under 4,900 miles in length, most hikers choose a section and cover a single region or two. Optimal weather depends on the chosen region. The north and central sections are best hiked in the summer once the snow has melted, while southern portions are most comfortable in spring and autumn.

Continental Divide Trail, U.S.

Another border-to-border trail in the U.S., the Continental Divide starts in Montana and follows the Rocky Mountains all the way to Mexico. The 3,100-mile route takes hikers from the border with Alberta to Idaho's mountains and the deserts of New Mexico. Unlike other long-distance thru-hikes in the U.S., the Continental Divide has a few variations and route options along the way.

The official trail is the Continental Divide Scenic National Trail — put together by the National Forest Service and follows the actual continental divide. However, on AllTrails and other maps, you'll find alternative routes and detours to follow if you want to cover a certain area or landmark not on the official trail. No matter which option you opt for, allow five to six months complete.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa & Lesotho

Covering 150 miles throughout southern Africa, the Drakensberg is one of the more brief, but difficult hikes on this list. You'll start at the Sentinel Car Park in Royal Natal National Park in South Africa, not far from Lesotho, and ends at Bushman's Neck Border Post across the border. Throughout the trek, you'll summit six mountains; Mont Aux Sources (10,768 feet), Cleft Peak (3,100 feet), Champagne Castle (11,080 feet), Mafadi (11,306 feet), Giant's Castle (10,875 feet) and Thabana Ntlenyana (11,420 feet), which is why it's considered a brutal hike despite the shorter length.

This hike is not very well signposted, often taking you through sheep fields that will require careful navigation. The spring and fall are when most hikers choose to tackle the path, due to longer daylight hours and friendlier weather conditions. Just remember seasons are reversed in this hemisphere!

Via Alpina (multiple alpine countries)

Eight countries make up this 3,100-mile trek; France, Monaco, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria, and Slovenia. You'll climb from sea level to 9,850 feet above, all in Europe's iconic Alps. Along the very well-marked path, look for the Via Alpina logo, to lead you to places to stay the night or purchase some food. The trails aren't considered too technical and can easily be completed without a guide by experienced hikers.

The Via Alpina is best hiked between June and September. However, as this is peak hiking season in Europe, it's recommended to book huts or other accommodations far in advance.

Jordan Trail, Jordan

Opened a few years ago, this is the first long-distance trail in Jordan and a wonderful adventure for hikers! The 420-mile trail takes you from the town of Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south along the Dead Sea. Along the way, you'll cross through Jordan's mountains, deserts, and small towns. Additionally, you'll cover the country's highlights by foot, including Petra, the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and the Kerak Castle.

The best time of year depends on the region, as despite its' small size, Jordan's climate and landscape are incredibly diverse. The north is most comfortable during March and April while the south is better tackled in late winter. Most trekkers will need about a month and a half to complete the trail. You can hike the Jordan Trail independently, but many knowledgeable local guides are available to make it a stress-free experience as well.

Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia and Armenia

One of the newer long-distance hiking routes, the Transcaucasian has been cobbled together over the years between Armenia and Georgia. With the trail currently at just under 960 miles long, hikers will pass through amazing alpine vistas, desert canyons, sweeping valleys, and volcanic remains. The first test-hikers hit the trail in 2022 and provided recommendations to improve the experience for those to come.

The Transcaucasian Trail, also called the TCT, made a few improvements and is now inviting the next batch to try out the latest iteration. There's a thru-hiker support program available that can help plan your trip and facilitate shipping supplies to various points along the trail. As this is still a newer trail, it's recommended only for experienced thru-hikers and is best tackled in July and August.

The Enchantments, U.S.

The 18-mile thru-hike in the Washington Cascades might not sound bad at first. That's until you realize that at a minimum, you'll gain over 2,000 feet of elevation. Still, the crystal clear lakes, smooth granite slabs, and towering Evergreen trees make for a setting unlike anywhere else in the state. Please note that overnight camping permits in the Enchantments are a lottery system and if you don't have one you cannot complete the hike over multiple days.

However, there are a few day-hike routes. The shortest option is a 7-mile route to the first lake in the Upper Enchantments, although this requires an elevation gain of 4,400 feet in that short distance. Don't attempt if you aren't a regular hiker, it's not a casual jaunt through the woods. Summer is the best season, although it's also beautiful during the fall larch season. And keep your eyes peeled for the mountain goats that like to frequent this area!

Inca Trail, Peru

This four to five-day hike is on many a trekker's bucket list. You'll start in the mountain city of Cusco before heading into the Andes, where you'll hike 26 miles and gain 2,000 feet of elevation en route to the Lost City of Machu Picchu. Dramatic cliff drop-offs and ancient ruins as well as local alpacas dot this trail. The jungles, cloud forests, and looming peaks await you on this trail.

This trail is only possible to complete with a certified guide, and you'll want to secure one far ahead of time as this is one of the most popular and famous routes in South America, thus they book out quickly because the Peruvian government limits the number of visitors each day to preserve the ancient site. Expect heavy crowds, especially in the peak season from May through September, where you can also expect pleasant temperatures and not too heavy rain.

Appalachian Trail, U.S.

This 2,200-mile trail through the eastern U.S. takes you through some epic scenery. From the mountains of Maine (the most difficult portion of the hike) through New England to the Appalachian mountains and finally ending in the northern part of Georgia.

You'll pass through 15 states while hiking this trail; Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia. It's recommended to start in spring and to allow five to seven months to hike the full route.

Torres del Paine W Track, Chile

The quintessential Patagonian route, this 45-mile circuit where you'll gain nearly 9,000 feet of elevation typically takes about five days to complete. The W Track is located in Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile. Thus, the seasons are reversed making November through April the best months, as well as the only period where independent treks are allowed.

Along the way, you'll enjoy views of Gatorade-colored alpine lakes, mountains teeming with glaciers, and sweeping valleys. If you want to hike in winter, you'll need to go with an official guide. Huts are available each night with food provided (for a fee), making it much simpler for hikers coming from abroad.

Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain, Peru

This 44-mile hike in the high Peruvian Andes will take your breath away — sometimes literally due to the high altitude in this part of the world. You'll begin at the bottom of the Vilcanota mountain range and complete a loop, usually lasting between four and six days.

You'll pass through epic vistas, and breathtaking glaciers, and hopefully spot some wildlife. The pinnacle of course is Rainbow Mountain , a mountain comprised of different colored minerals that give it a colorful appearance. Head to Peru from May through September for the most ideal conditions.

The Long Trail, U.S.

Vermont is known as an outdoor lover's paradise and The Long Trail is the ultimate challenge for hikers in the state. The route is considered the oldest continuous footpath in the U.S. and follows the local peaks for 272 miles from Massachusetts to the Canadian border. The last southern 100 miles are actually a part of the larger Appalachian Trail, which was supposedly inspired by the Vermont path.

You'll wander through the aptly named Green Mountains along serene streams and ponds and through mud, even in summer. The trail typically takes between two and three weeks to complete, although it has been done in under one. It's best tackled in late summer or early fall (when New England's foliage begins to show) to avoid extreme heat and the worst of the crowds.

Mount Toubkal, Atlas Mountains, Morocco

This just over 37-mile trek in North Africa's highest mountain is open to hikers (as are the huts to sleep in) year-round and is possible to do independently. Even for experienced hikers, it is considered quite the challenge with 12,320 feet of elevation gain. The hike can take you anywhere from two to seven days, with most of the climbing in the first couple. You'll start in the village of Imlil and pass through a few more small villages before getting into the heart of the trek. Then, you're rewarded with views of the rugged landscape and sometimes snowy peaks.

While you can hike throughout all seasons, April, May, September, and October are considered the best months to tackle it. Guides are available for hire in both Casablanca and Marrakech (two popular ports of entry to Morocco) should you not want to organize logistics on your own.

Great Himalayan Trail, Nepal

The Great Himalayan Trail, or GHT as it's known, is 2,800 miles long and is considered the highest hiking path in the world. The path will take you through eight 26,000-feet-plus peaks, with 3,000 to 5,000 feet of elevation gained on most days. From the east to the west of Nepal, you'll walk amongst the epic Himalayas, through alpine forests, snow-covered passes, and small villages.

The GHT is also considered one of the most difficult thru-hikes in the world, as it's very remote and many mountain passes can be fraught. This hike requires about five to six months to complete, although most hikers opt to tackle a single section.

The Greater Patagonian Trail, Chile & Argentina

Patagonia is a haven for hikers and the crown jewel of the area is, of course, the Greater Patagonian Trail, which starts just outside Santiago and continues south to the southernmost point on the continent. It's not an official trail, but rather a bunch of path networks put together to create this 1,900-mile route. Due to this, large sections aren't marked or officially established as paths, and you'll often be wandering in the wilderness between designated trails. Because of this, research and a GPS are absolutely necessary ahead of time.

Even then, you'll likely end up in cow fields or off-limits property at some point and will need to proceed with caution. Allow around four months to complete. Like most hikes in the region, the months between November and March are considered the most optimal.

Ak-Suu Transverse, Kyrgyzstan

This 67-mile hike starts in the small village of Jyrgalan and ends at an old Soviet-era resort in Jeti-Oguz. At over 20,000 feet in elevation gain, it's definitely one of the most challenging hikes in Asia and on this list. You'll pass through expansive green valleys, snow-covered passes, and rocky climbs and be rewarded with views of the surrounding countryside.

The route consists of seemingly endless vertical climbs and steep ascents, so make sure to prepare in your pre-trek training. The best time of the year to hike Ak-Suu is mid-summer, usually July and August. You'll need around one week to hike this route.

Fansipan Trek, Vietnam

In the hills above Sapa (known for beautiful landscapes and bustling markets) in northern Vietnam, lies this 14-mile hike which takes you up Fansipan, the region's highest peak, and through bamboo forests and lush valleys. You'll begin at the bottom of the mountain and ascend it in the first day or two, depending on your pace. Keep in mind the climb consists of over 10,000 feet of elevation gain, with the most intense section in the second half of the ascent.

After enjoying an epic view from the top, you'll descend into the verdant valley below. The hike usually takes trekkers between one to three days to complete, and you can do so independently or with a guide.

Lost City, Colombia

South America's other lost city can be found in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria in the north of Colombia. The 28-mile route through the jungle will pass by swimming holes and local farms, with campsites to sleep in along the way. Take care, as the forest can be damp, making sections a bit slippery, especially where you'll need to climb quite a few steps. In fact, to reach the end you'll need to climb about 1,200 steps in Colombian heat and humidity. It can also become quite muddy or dusty, depending on the season. In general, though, you can hike year-round, although if you arrive between May and September, be prepared for frequent downpours. Mosquitoes are common trail companions, so bring along bug spray.

You'll end in Ciudad Perdida, formerly called Teyuna or the "lost city," which is actually older than Machu Picchu, although much less remains. The path typically requires four to six days to complete and you must do so through a guided tour as you're passing through villages and ancestral land of the Kogi tribes. They've given permission for groups to hike through, but only with operators, so no tourists should be hiking on their own.

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

One of Nepal's shortest "teahouse" treks (as accommodation along the way is in mountain teahouses) you can hike between 100 and 160 miles (depending on your start point). However, with just over 8,800 feet in elevation gain, it's still a strenuous route no matter the course you take.

You'll tackle subtropic forests to some of the highest mountains in the world. The hike takes between 10 to 21 days to complete and is best hiked in fall or spring. As with all treks in Nepal as of 2023, you must hire a guide. Additionally, road construction has reportedly degraded the path a bit, but most trekkers still enjoy the route.

Milford Track, New Zealand

Another famous "Great Walk" in New Zealand , the Milford Track is a 33-mile hike in Fiordland National Park on the South Island. You'll hike through the rainforest, enjoy views of gushing waterfalls, pristine lakes, glacier-filled mountains, and across suspension bridges. Just like its neighbor the Kepler Track, Milford is best hiked during the "Great Walks season," between October and April, however experienced trekkers can do so outside this period.

If you're visiting during the season you'll want to book huts and campsites as soon as possible, at least a few months. No matter when you choose to hike, allow at least four days to hike and go between October and April for the best conditions.

The Great Trail, Canada

Canada is known as a fantastic place for hiking and The Great Trail, or Trans-Canada Trail, is the ultimate long-distance trek for those looking to see the country on foot. Starting in St. John's, Newfoundland, you'll wander the coast and forests of the Atlantic provinces, before heading into Quebec and the flats of the prairies. From there, you'll head into the Rockies, before turning north to the Arctic where you'll truly experience Canadian wilderness. Then, return south into the forests and mountains of British Columbia where you'll end on Vancouver Island.

At 17,400 miles long, of course, it would be quite difficult to complete in one go, most people complete sections at a time. And since Canada is known for brutal winters, it's best to do so in the summer months or early autumn.

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Grandmother Holds Plank for 4.5 Hours by 'Breathing, Staying Calm and Not Shaking' — and Sets World Record

DonnaJean Wilde, 58, set the Guinness World Record for holding the longest plank for a female with 4 hours, 30 minutes and 11 seconds

Vanessa Etienne is an Emerging Content Writer-Reporter for PEOPLE.

Guinness World Records

A 58-year-old mother of five and grandmother of 12 just broke the world record for the longest plank.

On March 27, DonnaJean Wilde — from Alberta, Canada — set the new record for holding the longest plank for a female with 4 hours, 30 minutes and 11 seconds, Guinness World Records announced.

To successfully achieve the record, the challenger’s forearms and toes must touch the ground at all times. The remainder of the body must be lifted off the ground and be kept straight throughout.

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According to Guinness, Wilde’s planking journey began 12 years ago when she broke her wrist and found that the exercise was one she could perform in her daily routine with a cast on.

“I realized that I could read and do things when I was planking and fell in love with it,” she recalled.

In order to prepare for the record-breaking plank, Wilde reportedly held a plank for five to six hours every day, split in two- to three-hour blocks. She was surrounded by her loved ones during the event and told Guinness that during the last 30 minutes, she focused on “breathing, staying calm, and not shaking.”

“The last hour was the most challenging, just to stay focused and keep my form,” she admitted.

Wilde said it’s “overwhelming” to have set the new world record after planking for so many years.

“I actually still can’t believe it. It feels like a dream,” she said before offering advice to anyone else who has the same goal. “Keep trying and keep practicing. When you have to read or work on your computer, just get on the floor and do it on the floor.”

For men, the benchmark for the longest plank was set by 53-year-old Josef Šálek from Czechia in May 2023, according to Guinness, with an unshakable time of 9 hours, 38 minutes and 47 seconds.

The Star Trek “Origin” Movie Is Finally Going Into Production

The new Star Trek prequel movie is set to be revealed on the big screen. Probably.

LOS ANGELES - DECEMBER 1: Leonard Nimoy as Commander Spock (Mr. Spock) in the STAR TREK: The Origina...

For 30 years — from 1979 to 2009 — the longest wait between new Star Trek feature films was seven years. And, for most of that period, from the release of Star Trek: The Motion Picture (1979) to Star Trek: Nemesis (2002), there was almost always a new Star Trek movie in theaters every two to four years. But after the wildly successful J.J. Abrams-directed reboot film in 2009, the release clip for Trek movies went from maximum warp to impulse power, to glacially slow. And now, by the time the next Star Trek movie hits theaters, it will have been about 10 years since the previous one — Star Trek Beyond — beamed into cinemas in 2016.

Since that time, for Trekkies, updates of a new Star Trek film have been very similar to the game football Lucy plays with Charlie Brown; just when a hypothetical movie sounds real, it gets snatched away. But now, there’s a glimmer of hope. Thanks to reports out of CinemaCon 2024, it looks like, the next Trek film is scheduled for release in either 2025 or 2026. But what’s it about? And will it really happen?

Star Trek 14 is “an untitled origin story”

Chris Pine and Zachary Quinto in 'Star Trek' (2009).

The new “origin story” will be set before the 2009 reboot. But how many decades before?

During CinemaCon 2024, Paramount confirmed several in-development projects including a live-action GI Joe / Transformers crossover (teased in 2023’s Rise of the Beasts ), a hardcore Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles live-action movie, a remake of the sci-fi thriller The Running Man (from Edgar Wright), the confirmation of an Avatar trilogy, and the assertion that a new Star Trek feature film will go into production this year, with a release date soon to follow.

Since 2016 to now, there have been at least five different attempts to make a new Star Trek film, either as timey wimey direct sequel to Beyond (“Star Trek 4”) a one-off space mobster movie (Quentin Tarantino’s script) or something else entirely (Noah Hawley and Matt Shakman’s attempts that remain undisclosed). But now, although Paramount is reportedly developing a sequel to Beyond — which would feature the reboot cast from the 2009 film one last time — the next Star Trek movie is not that sequel, but instead, as previously reported , an “origin story” that “takes place decades before the 2009 Star Trek film that rebooted the franchise.” This movie has been confirmed to be directed by Toby Haynes ( Andor, Doctor Who ) with a script from Seth Grahame-Smith ( The Lego Batman Movie , Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter) .

Wait? Wasn’t the 2009 film an “origin story?” While the answer to this question is technically a “yes,” the 2009 film (just titled Star Trek ) was also partially a time-travel sequel to the canon established in The Next Generation , and literally everything else in the Trek franchise up until that point. By saying the new prequel film takes place “decades before” the first reboot, this could hypothetically mean that the movie takes place in both the Prime and Kelvin timelines simultaneously.

TLDR: The Trek timeline diverged in the first reboot movie, beginning in the year 2233, so, a story set even a few decades before that divergence, in the 2210s or 2220s or earlier, would be consistent with all versions of Trek's future history. Presumably, the “origin story” won’t take place in the two decades between the prologue of the 2009 film (2233) and the main story (2258), because honestly, even for hardcore Trekkies that’s a big canon headache. So, sometime in the early 2200s, but before the 2230s is probably the best bet. And, even if the movie was set a bit earlier than that — say in the late 2180s or 2190s — we’d still be dealing with a very early point of Starfleet history that has never been depicted and that we know almost nothing about. Hence, if you squint — and don’t think about the prequel series Enterprise (2151-2161) too much — then yes, we’re looking at an origin story in which pretty much anything could happen.

Star Trek “origin” movie release date

LOS ANGELES - DECEMBER 1: The USS Enterprise during the opening credit for in the STAR TREK: The Ori...

One of the earliest shots of the USS Enterprise — from the 1964 Star Trek pilot episode “The Cage.” The new prequel film will likely be set half a century before this moment.

While some tweets out of CinemaCon seemed to indicate that the new Star Trek movie could hit next year in 2025 , TrekMovie confirmed that the “Untitled Star Trek Origin Story,” is on the Paramount slate for 2025 or 2026. TrekMovie also predicted that 2026 is more likely, writing, “If Paramount can move fast enough they could get the origin movie into theaters by 2026 — in time for Star Trek’s 60th anniversary.” Then again, 2025 is not impossible, it’s just cutting it a little close.

It should also be noted that the entire corporate entity of Paramount is reportedly close to a merger that would see it purchased by Skydance Media, the same production company behind the three existing J.J. Abrams-produced Star Trek reboots. If that deal is finalized soon, then, yes, this Star Trek feature film might actually happen very quickly. And if it doesn’t, there will still be plenty of new Star Trek shows streaming , not to mention the first direct-to-streaming standalone Star Trek movie, Section 31 , starring Michelle Yeoh, which will hit Paramount+ sometime later this year.

All the reboot Star Trek films (2009-2016) are currently streaming on Paramount+. The previous ten films (1979-2002) are all on Max.

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Can Any Modern Star Trek Series Reach 100 Episodes? Alex Kurtzman Shares His Thoughts

The head of Star Trek spoke at length about it.

Star Trek: Discovery is taking its final bow after five seasons, ending the longest-running series of the modern era. Thankfully, we know we can expect more upcoming Trek shows as well as a few surprises in the future , but even so, Voyager will hold onto the accolade of being the last show in the franchise to exceed 100 episodes. So, now the question becomes: Will a Star Trek series ever hit that milestone again? CinemaBlend talked about it with top brass Alex Kurtzman to get some answers.

I had a chance to speak to Kurtzman ahead of the premiere of Star Trek: Discovery on the 2024 TV schedule , and I asked if a day would ever come when a modern entry in the franchise could hit 100 episodes. It feels like a tall order, considering current seasons of current shows are only about ten episodes in length, but Kurtzman talked about another obstacle while giving his thoughts on the matter:

I don't know, it's very hard. I mean, the fact that [Discovery went to] go on five seasons is sort of a miracle. I think most people watch two seasons of a streaming show, and they check out, you know, and that's not specific to Trek. I just think that's the watch pattern for television in the streaming world. It's hard to know.

Streaming has permanently changed the television landscape. There are more options to watch shows both new and old than there ever were before. As such, it's hard to keep audiences glued to their Paramount+ subscription when competitors are churning out other exciting new shows. As he said, the fact that Star Trek: Discovery received five seasons before the cancellation was a big feat, especially when considering the fact that some of streaming's most popular shows, like Stranger Things , will end with Season 5 .

While Alex Kurtzman likely has the details of what is in store for Star Trek 's future, including the news on that rumored Jean-Luc Picard movie , he doesn't know what the future holds. He did offer his best guess at what the chances are of any current or upcoming Trek show hitting a hundred episodes and why he's happy with the way things currently are:

My guess would be that it would be unlikely. But in some ways, I think what's lovely about that is– it's funny you can talk to old writers of old Trek series, and they're like, ‘Man, there's a bunch of filler episodes in there. We are just trying to get to 22 a season,’ you know, and, and we all know which of those episodes were [filler], we know the ones that were truly stellar from the ones that felt like they were kind of spinning their wheels. And so I think what ten episodes a season forces you to do is really make sure that every story counts as much as it possibly can. And I like that, you know, I like that. I like what that affords us now.

I certainly can understand Alex Kurtzman's perspective, and I agree that some Star Trek filler episodes from the past were absolute stinkers. Then again, one has to wonder if The Next Generation had only ten episodes if we would have seen some of its more WTF moments unfold , or Tim Russ talking about Voyager 's "Tuvix" episode . There's a trade-off for the big-budget adventures, and a large part of it is the show needing to stay on task with the main story with the limited episodes it has.

Of course, Star Trek has still found ways to include side stories in this new era, with Strange New Worlds focusing on character-driven serialization amongst daily adventures the crew faces. It's working well enough that Discovery reportedly mimicked the style in its final season , and it may just be the new normal for the franchise going forward. Who knows, it may even get the series, which is currently in production for Season 3, to a hundred episodes, which would be fantastic. Then again, in an age where there's no sign of Trek slowing down, do we need that?

Fans may ponder this question as they tune in for new episodes of Star Trek: Discovery on Thursdays over on Paramount+. Those who aren't caught up need to do so, because this final season has been amazing thus far.

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Mick Joest is a Content Producer for CinemaBlend with his hand in an eclectic mix of television goodness. Star Trek is his main jam, but he also regularly reports on happenings in the world of Star Trek, WWE, Doctor Who, 90 Day Fiancé, Quantum Leap, and Big Brother. He graduated from the University of Southern Indiana with a degree in Journalism and a minor in Radio and Television. He's great at hosting panels and appearing on podcasts if given the chance as well.

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Guinness World Record for longest plank time broken by 58-year-old woman

DonnaJean Wilde first started planking about 12 years ago after an injury.

A 58-year-old grandmother has been recognized by the Guinness World Records for breaking the record for the longest time held in an abdominal plank position by a woman.

DonnaJean Wilde held a plank for 4 hours, 30 minutes and 11 seconds and broke the record at her former workplace, Magrath High School in Magrath, a town in Alberta, Canada, on March 21. Wilde's time is ten minutes longer than the previous record, set in 2019 by fellow Canadian Dana Glowacka, according to Guinness.

PHOTO: DonnaJean Wilde broke the Guinness world record for the longest time held in an abdominal plank position by a woman on March 21, 2024.

In order to set the new record, Guinness said Wilde needed to keep her forearms and toes on the ground at all times and the rest of her body needed to be lifted up from the ground and remain straight throughout the time period.

MORE: 62-year-old man breaks world record with 8-hour plank

Wilde told Guinness her 12 grandchildren, who went to watch their grandmother achieve the impressive feat, were the source of her motivation for breaking the record.

According to Guinness, Wilde started planking about 12 years ago after she sustained a wrist injury and was unable to lift weights or run. Despite living with chronic pain in her hands and arms, Wilde said she fell in love with planking after she realized she could multitask while doing the fitness move, such as reading a book.

Wilde, a retired high school vice principal and teacher, has since finished studying for her master's degree while planking and continues to keep up her planking, which she can do for up to three hours a day. While practicing to break the record, Wilde said she even planked for up to six hours a day.

Wilde told Guinness the first two hours of her record-breaking attempt were a breeze but the last couple of hours were more difficult and afterward, her elbows and quads all hurt but she was determined to stay focused.

"I actually still can't believe it," she said of breaking the record . "It feels like a dream."

MORE: How to nail the plank and push-up to get your summer abs and arms

For anyone else inspired to break the record she set, Wilde had a few words of advice.

"Keep trying and keep practicing," Wilde told Guinness. "When you have to read or work on your computer, just get on the floor and do it on the floor."

16 Largest Caves In The World, Ranked By Size

The Kazumura Cave in Hawaii is the longest and deepest lava tube in the world, measuring 40.7 miles long and 3,614 feet deep. Tourists cannot enter the cave, but there are tours available in the surrounding area.
Fingal's Cave in Scotland is known for its impressive acoustics and is accessible by boat. The cave's length varies between 227 and 270 feet, with its arched roof reaching up to 72 feet above the sea. Visit during low tide for the best access.
The Clearwater Cave System in Malaysia is over 30 miles long and exists within Gunung Mulu National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features an underground river and unique rock formations. The cave system is still being explored.

Serving as a gateway into the past and an example of the way our planet has evolved, the world's incredible caves have always sparked human interest. While some are inaccessible to tourists, many of the world’s most famous caves contain distinct rock formations, underground bodies of water, and other fascinating highlights, making them major attractions for locals and visitors alike. It’s humbling to think that there are some caves large enough to house New York City's epic skyscrapers and entire city blocks within them. Here are the largest caves in the world and where tourists can find them.

UPDATE: 2023/09/28 14:36 EST BY NOAH STAATS

There Are Two More Massive Caves To Check Out

This article has been refreshed with two new caves to see this year and helpful information on existing locations. Whether someone wants to cave dive, take a tour of an active volcanic site, or simply do some research, the planet is filled with incredible cave systems worth understanding. Be safe, and have fun!

Related: Explore Ancient Caves In Aruba's Arikok National Park (& More)

Kazumura Cave, Hawaii

This is the longest and deepest lava tube in the world.

For anyone in Hawaii, the Kazumura Cave is one not to miss. Here lies the lava tube, which has been surveyed at 40.7 miles long and 3,614 feet deep, making it the longest and deepest lava tube in the world. The Kazumura Cave in Hawaii is located on the island of HawaiÊ»i on the eastern slope of KÄ«lauea and is one of the more recently active in the area. Tourists are unable to go inside the cave as it is an active volcanic site, but there are tours in the surrounding area. After all, Hawaii is filled with stunning scenery (volcanoes and beyond), so this is a hidden gem.

Fingal's Cave, Scotland

This cave is known for its impressive acoustics.

Another massive cave worth exploring is Fingal's Cave in Scotland. This cave is not only on the uninhabited island of Staffa, in the Inner Hebrides of Scotland, but is also known for its natural acoustics. Many tourists will venture to the cave to scream, sing, and hear the vast echoes of afar. Fingal's Cave is accessible by boat, making it a nice sight for those willing to get on the water. Moreover, this cave's length varies between 227 feet (69 meters) and 270 feet (82 meters), and its arched roof is said to reach between 66 feet (20 meters) and 72 feet (22 meters) above the sea.

During low tide, guests have the best access to Fingal's Cave.

Clearwater Cave System, Malaysia

This cave system runs 30+ miles and exists in a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Situated in Miri, Sarawak, Malaysia, the limestone Clearwater Cave System consists of a series of interconnected caves rather than just a single one. Clearwater - on its own - has been mapped to just above 30 miles; however, Clearwater Cave System is more than just its longest member. Discovered in the late 1970s, the cave system exists within Gunung Mulu National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

In the Clearwater Cave System, people will find an underground river, as well as a plethora of unique rock formations. Containing an exceptionally large passage, the Clearwater Cave System is one of the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia and serves as a major tourist attraction. The amazing thing about caves is that nobody knows their true size. Clearwater is still being explored to this very day.

Hölloch Cave, Switzerland

This is one of the biggest caves in the world that tourists can enter.

Tourists can enter the Hölloch, one of the biggest caves in the world. This enormous underground marvel is 124.5 miles long and impressively deep at 3079.3 feet. The Hölloch is a natural wonder not to be missed, with its striking limestone structures and subterranean waterways.

Lechuguilla Cave, New Mexico

Located within the Carlsbad Caverns National Park.

Lechuguilla Cave is located within Carlsbad Caverns National Park in New Mexico . A limestone and gypsum cave spanning more than 138 miles , Lechguilla is full of interesting mineral formations that have attracted the interest of geologists around the world. While discovered in the 1950s, approximately three decades would pass before Colorado would permit the cave to be explored further. Since the decade of hair metal, explorers have investigated Lechuguilla Cave while marveling at its beauty.

Wind Cave, South Dakota

This is one of the oldest National Park cave attractions in the United States.

Wind Cave National Park is one of the oldest of its kind in the United States. Another cave that’s classified as a “maze cave” due to its convoluted structure and many underground passages, Wind Cave's density is staggering, even compared to other caves on this list. Those visiting the cave should also take some time to explore the national park in which it resides.

Wind Cave National Park is brimming with picturesque views and serves as a protective habitat for the local wildlife.

Related: Visit Ontario's Largest-Known Cavern: The Tyendinaga Caves

Shuanghedong Cave Network, China

This is the longest cave network in China and the continent of Asia.

The Shuanghedong Cave Network is the longest cave in China and Asia , situated in Guizhou. Running for more than 150 miles, the network was discovered in 1987 and is a fine example of underground ecosystems. There are at least three rivers in the lower levels of the cave, as well as a number of waterfalls.

Within these bodies of water live creatures such as fish and salamanders. Since its discovery in the late 1980s, various expeditions have been carried out in an attempt to map the passages and discover the cave's secrets.

Optymistychna Cave, Ukraine

Ukraine boasts the longest gypsum cave in the world.

Earning the crown for the longest gypsum cave, Optymistychna Cave in Ukraine extends for over 161 miles and is divided into 10 different areas. These are based on the various passage structures and gypsum varieties found within. Optymistychna Cave, located in Korolivka, Ukraine, is widely known as a maze cave due to the fact that it is extremely elaborate and a little complicated to navigate.

Visitors should be prepared for a lot of mud, especially in the depths of the cave.

Sistema Ox Bel Ha, Mexico

This cave runs within a 30-mile radius of Mexico's other largest cave system.

Mexico’s Sistema Ox Bel Ha is located within a 30-mile radius of the country’s other largest cave system, Sistema Dos Ojos. Discovered in 1996 and spanning over 160 miles , Ox Bel Ha is thought to have begun forming approximately 18,000 years ago. The name Ox Bel Ha comes from the Yucatec Maya language and translates to “Three Paths of Water” in English.

Since its formation, Ox Bel Ha has become flooded due to the effects of global warming. Today, the system is valued as one of the prominent sources of freshwater in the region.

Mulu Caves, Borneo

These caves are home to the Sarawak and Deer Chambers and hundreds of bats.

Home to the Sarawak and Deer Chambers, Mulu Caves houses hundreds of bats and one of the world's most impressive and largest cave formations. Some of the most stunning cave formations may be seen at the Mulu Caves, situated in the Gunung Mulu National Park on the island of Borneo (home to some of the biggest cave systems in the world) .

The Deer Chamber is one of the biggest underground tunnels on Earth, while the Sarawak Chamber, with a surface size of 1.66 million square feet, is the largest cave overall. Tourists may take guided excursions to explore their maze-like pathways.

Related: The World's Largest Geode Is This Ohio Crystal Cave

Jewel Cave, South Dakota

This Jewel Cave is one of the most beautiful in the United States.

As far as aesthetically pleasing caves go, South Dakota’s Jewel Cave is not to be missed. Nestled in the Black Hills National Forest, this gem boasts beautiful scenery below the ground as well as above. The name Jewel Cave comes from the colorful crystals that can be found adorning the inner corners of the cave.

There are a number of tours visitors can take to truly experience Jewel Cave in all its splendor, whether they want to trek to the cave system underground or enjoy the trails on the land above ground.

Sistema Dos Ojos, Mexico

This cave network runs for over 200 miles and is connected to other underwater caves.

Located in Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico, Sistema Dos Ojos was discovered in 1987 and has hooked the interest of explorers ever since. Running for over 200 miles , this limestone cave is connected to the underwater cave of Sistema Sac Atun.

According to Largest.org , Sistema Dos Ojos is considered a prime archeological site. Archaeologists have discovered information within this cave system that has led to many discoveries about a number of cultures. After the channel connecting Sistema Dos Ojos with Sistema Sac Atun was discovered, this cave system became known as the largest underwater cave in existence.

Sac Actun, Mexico

This is the largest cave system in Mexico.

The greatest cave system in Mexico is an underwater one, and new parts of it are constantly being found and investigated. Sac Actun is one of the world's largest underwater cave systems; it presently extends over 228 miles as new caverns are found. Sac Actun won't let down adventurers with all the beauty and majesty that a cave of this size involves.

Related: 20 Unique Caves Around The World Only The Brave Should Explore

Mammoth Cave, Kentucky

Mammoth Cave is not fully understood or mapped yet.

It’s unknown how far Mammoth Cave actually extends, but to date, it has been recorded that the underground system stretched at least 365 miles . New caves in the network are constantly being discovered, so there’s no telling just how expansive the system really is - some believe it could be the biggest cave in the world, given that nobody knows its true size yet.

Humans have been exploring Mammoth Cave for over 4,000 years, and today, it’s still a major tourist attraction in Kentucky. A particularly stunning cave, it hosts a variety of stalactite formations. These were created through water that leaked through the limestone ceiling of the cave over the millennia.

People can visit Mammoth Cave National Park and see the cave for real .

Miao Room Cave, China

This cave is only reachable via its underground stream.

The Miao Room is undoubtedly one of the largest caverns in the world. This chamber, 380,700,000 cu ft in volume , is only reachable via its underground stream. These measurements were discovered during a laser-mapping trip that was supported by the National Geographic Society, and they were then presented at the national caving conference in the UK.

Son Doong Cave, Vietnam

The Son Doong Cave is one of the largest in the world, forcing guests to drop 260 feet to enter.

With caverns large enough to house a 40-story skyscraper, the recently discovered Son Doong Cave in Vietnam is the largest cave in the world and forces visitors to descend 260 feet just to enter its perimeters. Son Doong was discovered in 1991 by a man named Ho Khanh, who was living in the nearby jungle.

The first expedition to the cave was led by the British Cave Research Association in 2009. They found that Son Doong is more than 400 million years old . For those wanting to visit, Oxalis Adventures is the only company to run tours into the Son Doong Caves . Overall, this beast dwarfs many of the other largest caverns in the world, so it's a must-see for any cave enthusiast looking for their next adventure.

16 Largest Caves In The World, Ranked By Size

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It’s a tall order having these gargantuan gams.

A Texas woman who boasts the world’s longest legs says there are serious setbacks to being super statuesque.

Maci Currin, 21, stands at a staggering 6 feet,10 inches, with both of her legs measuring more than 52 inches in length.

But while the Austin native may be a world record holder, she says she’s subjected to cruel comments from strangers, while also struggling with dating and finding fitted pants for her pins.

“If someone is going to hate, they hate because they don’t understand,’ Currin claimed in an interview with Jam Press. “[I’m] called horror movie characters, like Slenderman.”

Maci Currin, 21, stands at a staggering 6ft 10 ins, with both of her legs measuring more than 52 inches in length.

The super-tall Texan shares videos on TikTok , where trolls often leave rude remarks about her appearance.

“That would be scary to see in a dark hallway,” one hater sneered on a recent video of the content creator.

However, it’s not just strangers that treat Currin cruelly.

She told Jam Press that she always towers over her dates, leaving some potential paramours feeling inadequate and “embarrassed.”

“All the times I’ve dated, especially with men that are shorter than me by a significant amount, has just felt off,” she stated. “Like they were almost embarrassed of me.”

In one TikTok clip, Currin claimed that men are reluctant to kiss her in public because of the height difference.

The super-tall Texan shares videos on TikTok, where trolls often leave rude remarks about her appearance.

Finding clothes that fit is also a tall order.

“I shop at American Tall mostly, although they don’t have any long pants that fit me,” she explained.

“I have to get them custom-made, which costs around $250 for one pair of jeans. I’m not made of money [so] I only have two pairs of jeans that fit me right.”

But Currin says she hasn’t drawn the short end of the stick with her long legs, and loves being her height in spite of the setbacks.

“I hated my height [as a child] because it was the one thing kids could target me for,” she stated. “But the best perk would have to be that no one is like me. I am unique.”

"I shop at American Tall mostly, although they don't have any long pants that fit me," she explained.

Currin is now on a mission to encourage other similarly statuesque women to stand tall — literally and metaphorically.

“As a 6 foot, 10inch female, my job is to empower other tall women,” she declared.

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This iconic wildflower spot can be dazzling. Is it worth the trek from L.A. this year?

Jeanette Marantos / Los Angeles Times

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Carrizo Plain National Monument in eastern San Luis Obispo County is one of California’s most iconic wildflower viewing areas, but is this year’s display worth the 150-mile drive from L.A.?

If you’re looking for blankets of bright color covering the hills, the answer is no.

But if you want a beautiful outing with boundless sky, close encounters with birds, Indigenous and geologic history and undulating waves of grass punctuated by splotches of gold, violet and orange, then definitely yes — but wait a good week or more for the muddy roads to become passable again.

In early March, a friend and I planned our visit for April 14, largely because the rainy season is typically over by the end of March, peak bloom is typically in early April, and given this spring’s cool temperatures, we figured the weather would have warmed by then to encourage a good display. But the first two weeks of April brought plenty of chilly showers to much of Central and Southern California, and during our visit, the temperatures hovered in the mid-50s, and the rain waxed and waned between hopeful moments of blue sky followed by black clouds and water falling in curtains.

A photo of goldfields carpeting the valley hanging in the bathroom of the Cuyama Buckhorn restaurant.

Truth be told, the best wildflower display we saw during our visit was a 2019 photograph in the restroom of the Cuyama Buckhorn restaurant in New Cuyama — a stunning view of California goldfields ( Lasthenia californica) growing so vast in the Carrizo Plain during a superbloom that they looked like a golden carpet stretching for miles.

Truth be told, the best wildflower display we saw during our visit was a 2019 photograph in the restroom of the Cuyama Buckhorn restaurant.

We did see swaths of goldfields during our soggy trip, along with armies of brown sodden tumbleweeds and pockets of other wildflowers, such as purple owl’s clover (Castilleja exserta) , which are actually violet; yellow and white common tidy tips ( Layia platyglossa ); and (rarely) California poppy ( Eschscholzia californica ). But the most prominent color was the bright green of California’s hills after a rainy spring.

The tall grass was thick and ripply, like wind on water, and often erupted with birds that flew alongside our car and sometimes outpaced us because Soda Lake Road, the lone paved road, was pocked with gaping potholes and puddles of concerning depth.

Why aren’t wildflowers bursting everywhere? Don’t expect a superbloom

April is a stellar month for celebrating native plants, from wildflower hunting (when they arrive) to the Los Angeles Times’ Festival of Books, plus lots of plant activities.

April 1, 2024

A superbloom? Not then and probably not this year, according to the rangers at the Goodwin Education Center at Carrizo Plain. The sign behind the front counter told the story. The last three superbloom years — when wildflowers bloomed so densely that they formed quilts of color over the hills — were in 2017, 2019 and 2023, the rangers said, when the region’s rainfall from Oct. 1 to Sept. 30 had, respectively, been 12.29 inches, 16.31 inches and 15.32 inches. So far, the rainfall for 2024’s water year is less than 10 inches — including the unseasonable rain falling April 14 — and more rain this season is not expected.

A whiteboard with rainfall totals hanging on a wall next to a framed photo of wildflowers on a plain.

The Carrizo Plain stretches 50 miles between the Temblor and Caliente mountains, a grassy plain and drainage basin where Chumash, Yokuts and other Indigenous peoples hunted and traded before settlers tried their hand at dryland farming. There are a few campgrounds, trails and unpaved roads, but no services (such as gas, water, food and, usually, cell). The temperatures often exceed 100 degrees in the summer and dip down to freezing during the winter, according to the brochure. All but one of the roads, Soda Lake Road off Highway 58, are unpaved, and even Soda Lake Road becomes an unpaved, rutted road five miles south of the Goodwin Education Center, which features restrooms and picnic tables, along with books, gifts and exhibits.

Besides birding, camping, hiking and wildflower peeping, you can walk along the San Andreas Fault on the Wallace Creek trail, wander on a platform trail along Soda Lake, which becomes a “dry, salt-encrusted basin during the dry season,” according to the brochure, and study the pictographs left by Native peoples on Painted Rock, which this time of year can be visited only with ranger guides on Saturdays ( reservations required ).

A vertical photo of a long, straight, muddied dirt road.

But on Sunday, we couldn’t do any of that because the muddy, unpaved roads were so impassable that even tow trucks were getting stuck, according to rangers. Every few minutes, someone came into the center and asked the same question — is it safe to keep driving south on Soda Lake Road once the pavement ends? And every time, the rangers patiently answered that they definitely wouldn’t recommend any of the unpaved roads for two-wheel-drive cars, or even four-wheel-drive SUVs, unless they had high clearance, nerves of steel and enough money to pay for a tow truck.

The few that braved the back roads drove brawny vehicles that looked like they’d been sloppily dipped into chocolate. As my friend and I wavered about what to do, we spoke with two people who had made the drive. They had a kind of hysterical look and emphatically told us not to try, even though my Toyota Highlander SUV has four-wheel drive. “I can’t believe we made it,” said one wide-eyed woman in a large pickup with mud caked halfway up its windshield. “You’d never get through.”

Top row: Astragalus bicristatus, Grindelia camporum, Atragalus brauntonii, Quercus engelmannii. Bottom row: Keckiella ternata var ternata, Linanthus concinnus, Polystichum imbricans ssp curtum, Calochortus weedii var intermedius.

He’s out to photograph every native plant in L.A. County — 750 down, 1,840 to go

At 34, Matt Smith is a widower and amateur botanist whose grief and passion are fueling a quest some might call quixotic — to photograph every plant native to Los Angeles County.

Dec. 27, 2023

A few hearty souls were walking in the rain on the platform trail along Soda Lake, but the tiny parking area had so many muddy ruts and puddles that we decided to avoid that too, lest we get stuck. Instead, I grumpily drove back north to California 58 — even though I hate backtracking — and headed east. Our mood quickly improved along this spectacular winding drive through what looked like the verdant, tree-dappled Shire in the Lord of the Rings.

The Cuyama Buckhorn restaurant in New Cuyama.

After our lovely drive south on 58, we turned west on California 33 near McKittrick, and within a few miles entered a hellscape of bobbing oil pumps and acres of power poles and wires between Derby Acres and Taft. Our destination was New Cuyama for a late lunch-early dinner at the Cuyama Buckhorn restaurant on California 166, which runs along the western border of the Carrizo Plain. I heartily recommend this restaurant, which despite its tiny town locale has a sophisticated, upscale bar, wine list and menu (the smoked oyster mushroom tacos with tender blue-corn tortillas — made at the restaurant — are to die for), along with a remodeled hotel.

Blue Sky Center for the tr-things-to-do-cuyama-valley POI.

Travel & Experiences

11 things to do in this hidden roadside town bursting with history

In the Cuyama Valley, just a two-hour drive from Los Angeles, you’ll find history, wine tasting, great food, hiking, camping, thrifting and plenty of wildflower peeping.

March 22, 2023

And when we were done, the clouds were parting, luckily, because our final leg took us west through Los Padres National Forest on California 33, a scenic but winding road where earlier rain had washed out several spots, so we had to stop frequently to wait for a green light to travel along single lanes. The going was beautiful but slow and a little hair-raising as day turned to night.

Plan ahead. Check out the Carrizo Plain National Monument website or call the visitor center at (661) 391-6191 (the recorded information line is [661] 391-6193) for events and reservations to visit Painted Rock or other sites. Note that ranger-guided tours to Painted Rock are available only on Saturdays during the spring, to protect nesting birds.
Cell service is unreliable at best, or nonexistent, so download a map ahead of time, pack one or pick one up at the education center.
Pack water and food; there isn’t any in the nature preserve.
Fill your tank before you leave. My friend flew into Santa Barbara Municipal Airport around 5 p.m. April 13, and we drove about 90 miles north to Avila Beach to stay the night. The next morning, we headed north on the 101 Freeway to California 58 for the 79-mile drive to Carrizo Plain National Monument. I foolishly didn’t fill my gas tank before leaving Ventura and was horrified to discover that most of the gas stations on our route were charging between $5.70 and $6 a gallon.
Adjust your expectations . You likely won’t see carpets of flowers this year, but there will be bright patches of color throughout the plain, and as botanist Naomi Fraga says, “All blooms are super.”

At the start of each month, get a roundup of upcoming plant-related activities and events in Southern California, along with links to tips and articles you may have missed.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Jeanette Marantos is a Features reporter focused primarily on plants, gardening and Southern California’s changing landscapes for the Los Angeles Times. She also writes the monthly L.A. Times Plants newsletter, which includes a calendar of upcoming plant-related events. Email calendar submissions or plant-related story ideas to [email protected] for consideration.

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IMAGES

Everest Expedition
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10 of the World’s Longest Hiking Trails
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Longest Hiking Trails In The World

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10 of the World's Longest Hiking Trails
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The 12 World's Longest Hiking Trails
The world's trails offer a wide range of possibilities for the hiking lovers, in quest for kilometres. Between 425 kilometres and 24 000 kilometres, this articles, presenting the world's longest treks, will likely make you feel tired already!From the United-States to Canada or even Japan, crossing Europe, the world does not lack long treks, all as magnificent and challenging as the other.
Longest Hiking Trails In The World
The Great Western Loop is one of the longest hiking trails in the US at 6,875 miles (11,064 km). The trail through 9 US states including New Mexico, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, California, and Arizona. The trail crosses the Mojave and Sonoran deserts as well as 12 national parks and 75 wilderness areas.
10 of the best long-distance trails for hikers around the world
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Let's take a look at the 10 longest hiking trails in the world: 1. The Great Trail, Canada. A viewpoint above Reesor Lake, on the Great Trail in Alberta. Photo: Getty Images. Formerly known as the Trans Canada, the Great Trail is the ultimate in long-distance hiking trails. Like most long-distance hiking trails, it's actually a network of ...
9 Longest Hiking Trails in the World
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12 of the World's Longest Hiking Trails
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7 of the longest trails the world has to offer. ... The network of trails currently stretch 18,000km and when it is finished walkers can trek 24,000km. Organisers hope it'll be complete in 2017.
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George Meegan (born 2 December 1952) is a British adventurer and alternative educator best known for his unbroken walk of the Western Hemisphere from the southern tip of South America to the northernmost part of Alaska at Prudhoe Bay. This journey was 19,019 miles (30,608 km) on foot, completed in 2,426 days (1977-1983) and is documented in his book The Longest Walk (1988).
The 9 Longest Trails In The World
The Pacific Crest Trail, often referred to as just the PCT, is one of the best-known trails on the list of the longest trails in the world. The Pacific Crest Trail is a 2,653-mile trail that stretches the length of the west coast of the United States of America. It spans the states of California, Oregon, and Washington from its trailhead just ...
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Cavan Images/Getty Images. Any discussion of the best long-distance hiking trails in the world has to include the Appalachian Trail in the U.S. Widely regarded as the finest long-distance route in the world, the AT—as it's referred to by backpackers—opened in 1921, making it one of the first big backpacking routes on the planet. Stretching for 2,200 miles between Springer Mountain in ...
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The 10 best treks in the world
Routeburn Track, New Zealand. Best trek for: fans of big landscapes. Distance: 20 miles (32km) Duration:3-4 days. Level: moderate. New Zealand 's South Island is as alpine as you can get without actually being in the Alps, and the 3-day Routeburn Track is one of the best ways to cross this pristine natural wonderland.
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10 of the World’s Longest Hiking Trails

1. The Great Trail, Canada (14,912 miles/24,000 kilometers)

2. The American Discovery Trail (6800 miles/10,944 kilometers)

3. E1 European Long Distance Path (4960 miles/7980 kilometers)

4. The Grand Italian Trail (4455 miles/7170 kilometers)

5. The Continental Divide Trail (3100 miles/5000 kilometers)

6. The Great Himalayan Trail (2800 miles/4585 kilometers)

7. Hokkaido Nature Trail (2848 miles/4585 kilometers)

8. England Coast Path (2795 miles/4500 kilometers)

9. Pacific Crest Trail (2653 miles / 4270 kilometers)

10. Te Araroa (1894 miles / 3000 kilometers)

30 Longest Hiking Trails in the World, Ranked

30. Jordan Trail

29. Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Historical Trail

27. Bruce Trail

26. Transmantiqueira Trail

25. Michinoku Coastal Trail

24. Bibbulmun Track

23. South West Coast Path

22. Israel National Trail

21. TransPanama Trail

20. National Blue Trail

19. Skåneleden

18. Wales Coast Path

17. Tokai Nature Trail

16. Great Himalaya Trail

15. Greater Patagonian Trail

14. Sultans Trail

13. Camino de Santiago de Compostella

12. Via Alpina

11. Via Francigena

10. Te Araroa

9. Appalachian Trail

8. Chubu Hokuriku Nature Trail

7. Pacific Crest Trail

6. Tohoku Nature Trail

5. Hokkaido Nature Trail

4. Continental Divide Trail

3. Grand Italian Trail

2. E1 European Long-Distance Path

1. The Great Trail of Canada

The 12 World's Longest Hiking Trails

Pacific Crest Trail – United-States

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Via Alpina – Alps

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Grand Italian Trail or Sentiero Italia – Italy

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Longest Hikes in the World

Trans Canada Trail

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American Discovery Trail

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The Longest Hiking Trails In The World

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12 of the World’s Longest Hiking Trails

1) Appalachian Trail – United States

2) Pacific Crest Trail – United States

3) Continental Divide Trail – United States