Where to Hike: Best Hiking Trails With Breathtaking Views
For many people, there is nothing more satisfying and thrilling than taking a hike in nature. There is something magical feeling about trekking through wooded trails, watching the scenery change with every step. Taking in the beauty of nature’s landscape, exploring uncharted terrains, and disconnecting from our everyday lives — all of which filling us with joy and wonder.
Hiking is a great way to spend time with friends and family, or just to have some personal ‘me time’. What better way to restore balance, perspective and peace than to experience nature’s healing power. Plus, with the right trail, you can feast your eyes on stunning views and breathtaking landscapes.
To make your outdoor journey extraordinary, we have a compilation of brilliantly beautiful hiking trails to inspire your next outdoor adventure. From sun-kissed beaches and rocky coastal terrain to lush rainforest and spectacular mountains. Our list covers the 10 best trails with amazing, picture-perfect views. Read on to find out where to hike and to get inspired for your next outdoor adventure.
- Appalachian Trail, United States
Acknowledged as one of the premier hiking trails of the world, the Appalachian Trail is an epic 2,190-mile journey through 14 states. From Georgia to Maine, the trail passes through majestic peaks, towering forests, and rugged cliff edges. The trail offers some of the most magnificent sceneries, with spectacular views of the surrounding valleys.
The trail attracts around 2 to 3 million visitors annually, who come to experience the architectural, geological, and historical features along with the natural beauty. If you intend to complete the entire trail, it will take around five to seven months to complete the grandeur journey.
- Coast to Coast Trail, Scotland
The Coast to Coast Trail is a 190-mile long trail in Scotland that connects the western and eastern shores of the country. It allows you to explore the country’s diverse landscapes, including the breathtaking Lake Districts, the lush green valleys and the rugged hills covered in heather.
The trail passes through some of the most stunning spots in Scotland, including the 13th century Dufton Church, England’s highest mountain, Scafell Pike, Hadrian’s wall and many more incredible attractions. The trail isn’t a technical one, it’s actually more of a walk than a hike and will take around two weeks to complete.
- Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail offers a unique hiking experience and it certifies one of the most classic treks of the world. The 41 mile long, four-day hike takes adventurers through lush green jungles, beautiful stone stairs, and numerous Incan ruins hidden within the mountain, with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes all along the way.
The Inca Trail, leading to the lost city of Machu Picchu, has become increasingly popular and spots fill up quickly. So, if one is looking to experience the grandeur Inca Trail, it’s important to book your spot 6 to 12 months ahead.
- Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
The Everest Base Camp Trek is one of the most popular and rewarding treks in the world. It is not an easy trail but has some of the most breathtaking views in Nepal. The challenging 17-day trek passes through the mountain trails, suspension bridges, and dense forests to the base camp of the world’s highest mountain, Mount Everest.
The unique combination of frozen lakes, high plateau’s, snow-capped summits, and beautiful villages will mesmerize the adventurous heart. Every step of the journey will bring something different; don’t forget to take some time off to soak in the magnificence of the area.
- Seven Lakes Trail, Romania
This spectacularly beautiful mountain trail in Romania’s Carpathian Mountains offers some of the best views for hikers and nature lovers. This 16-mile trail takes hikers through old monasteries, subalpine meadows, high-altitude forests of spruce and birch, rock formations, and of course the amazing Seven Lakes.
The seven glacier lakes make the journey spectacularly beautiful. Each of the lakes come with their own tales, and the reflection of the stars at night will make your journey all the more beautiful.
- Pulpit Rock, Norway
Pulpit Rock Trail in Norway is a 6.2-mile trail that offers a spectacular view of the Ryfylke region. It is one of the most popular hikes in Norway. The trail winds through tall pine forests and steep walls of the fjord to the amazing Pulpit Rock. The Pulpit Rock is a 604-meter plateau offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the Lysefjord.
With stunning views of the surrounding landscape and blue waters of the fjords, this is a trail worth exploring. And, the challenging bit about the hike is that you have to climb more than 1350 steps before you reach the top.
- Kalalau Trail, Hawaii
Kalalau Trail is an 11-mile path on the Napali Coast of Kauai in Hawaii. This amazing hike runs alongside the untamed coast and it offers some of the most stunning views. Hikers can enjoy the views of secluded beaches, cascading waterfalls, and deep emerald sea cliffs.
The Kalalau Trail is considered to be one of the most beautiful hikes in the world. This strenuous yet rewarding trail, is not suitable for beginner hikers. But if you’re ready for the challenge and looking for some of the most beautiful views in Hawaii, the Kalalau Trail is ready for you.
- Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
The Torres del Paine Circuit in Chile is one of the world’s most magnificent treks. This 82-mile circuit takes explorers around the entire circuit of the Paine range in Chilean Patagonia. This is one of the few best loops in South America and it offers some of the most breathtaking views in the region.
The trail passes through some of the most incredible sceneries, including the Torres del Paine, two glaciers, and the idyllic French Valley and Grey Glacier where five interconnected lakes that are emerald, sky blue, and navy. Test your endurance and explore the flora and fauna of the region on this captivating yet rewarding trail.
- Tijuca Forest, Brazil
The Tijuca Forest is a nature lovers paradise. Located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it is the world’s largest urban forest reserve, covering more than 1,200 acres of gorgeous green land. The forest is divided into different parts and has numerous trails, creeks and streams, and waterfalls.
The Tijuca Forest is the most popular destination for hikers, as it offers breathtaking views from high cliff edges, lush valleys, and the surrounding city. Visitors can also enjoy the views of Tourist Stone, The Blue Lagoon, and the majestic Christ the Redeemer, which is an iconic symbol of the city of Rio de Janeiro.
- The Fimmvorduhals Trail, Iceland
The Fimmvorduhals Trail is a 10-mile trail nearing Reykjavik in Iceland. The trail was formed following the 2010 volcanic eruption that shaped its unique beauty. It offers some of the most breathtaking views of the Eyjafjallajökull glacier, craters, and rock formations.
The area is filled with hot springs, ash fields, and rivers. It’s also a great place for wildlife observation. The trail is a bit challenging and to make it to the top, you need to pass through several glacial rivers, climbing over rocks and volcanic ash. However, despite the challenging terrain, the views from the top make it all worth it.
Enhance your experience of nature and explore some spectacular views by taking up a memorable and thrilling hike. From beautiful beaches and breathtaking landscapes to the world’s highest peak, nature has something beautiful to offer in all its forms. Our compilation highlights some of the most spectacular trails and the breathtaking views they have to offer.
So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to lace up those boots and take on the great outdoors. Choose your destination, pack your bag and get ready to uncover and experience some of the best views on the planet.
