Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore
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VOICE OVER: Phoebe de Jeu
WRITTEN BY: Michael Wynands
Thanks to Getty Images for the pictures and videos!
Dust off your boots and backpack… we're going for a walk. Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we'll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore.
For this list, we're looking at the most unique, thrilling, challenging and beautiful hiking trails and treks from around the globe.
Dust off your boots and backpack… we're going for a walk. Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we'll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore.
For this list, we're looking at the most unique, thrilling, challenging and beautiful hiking trails and treks from around the globe.
Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore
Dust off your boots and backpack… we’re going for a walk. Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore.
For this list, we’re looking at the most unique, thrilling, challenging and beautiful hiking trails and treks from around the globe.
#10: Everest Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu, Nepal
Given that only a few thousand people have successfully reached the summit of the famous Mount Everest, it’s safe to say that this iconic climb is not for everyone. That being said, for those who want to see the iconic natural landmark firsthand, the 14 day trek from Kathmandu to the base of Everest is a journey in its own right. The hike will take you through some truly stunning scenery, isolated monasteries, small rural villages and across bridges that are sure to give you vertigo as you ascend to an altitude of 17,600 feet. It’s not a cheap trip by any means, but it’s truly a once in a lifetime experience.
#9: The Trek to Petra
Dana to Petra, Jordan
Petra requires no introduction. This legendary city, the one time capital of the Nabataean Empire, long lost to all but the local Bedouin people, is a archeological destination that attracts the curious from around the world. Most people simply take a bus to get there, but this trek definitely makes for a more memorable approach. Taking 5 to 6 days depending on your fitness level and guide, the Trek to Petra reportedly follows an old caravan route, and enters the ancient city of Petra via a back door seen by few. Along the way you’ll marvel at sandstone monoliths, navigate gorges and skirt ridges as you marvel at the history of the Wadi Rum desert.
#8: Routeburn Track
Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
You’ve never seen anything like the Routeburn Track… we can pretty much guarantee that. Connecting Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, this hike isn’t particularly long - it’s just under 20 miles start to finish. But what it lacks in duration it more than makes up for with its natural majesty and the diversity of its terrain. Along the way you’ll walk through moss covered forest, cross swing bridges, follow the Route Burn Gorge and its accompanying river, pass waterfalls and marvel at the surrounding mountains. This is a natural paradise and a living testament to the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand.
#7: Kungsleden
Gällivare, Sweden
Realistically, you’re probably going to want to make more than one hiking trip to this area of Sweden - that or commit a month of your life to exploring the Kungsleden (which translates to King’s Trail) so that you can explore this natural gem in its entirety. Kungsleden measures just under 300 miles and is typically broken down into a number of separate hikes to make it less daunting. Whichever sections you choose to explore, you’re sure to find yourself awestruck by the your surroundings. From alpine terrain to birch forests, there’s a lot to see and with mountain cabins every 6 to 12 miles or so, you’ll have trouble picking an end point.
On Thu, Jul 19, 2018 at 11:52 AM, J Karpati wrote:
Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore
Dust off your boots and backpack… we’re going for a walk. Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore.
For this list, we’re looking at the most unique, thrilling, challenging and beautiful hiking trails and treks from around the globe.
#10: Everest Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu, Nepal
Given that only a few thousand people have successfully reached the summit of the famous Mount Everest, it’s safe to say that this iconic climb is not for everyone. That being said, for those who want to see the iconic natural landmark firsthand, the 14 day trek from Kathmandu to the base of Everest is a journey in its own right. The hike will take you through some truly stunning scenery, isolated monasteries, small rural villages and across bridges that are sure to give you vertigo as you ascend to an altitude of 17,600 feet. It’s not a cheap trip by any means, but it’s truly a once in a lifetime experience.
#9: The Trek to Petra
Dana to Petra, Jordan
Petra requires no introduction. This legendary city, the one time capital of the Nabataean Empire, long lost to all but the local Bedouin people, is a archeological destination that attracts the curious from around the world. Most people simply take a bus to get there, but this trek definitely makes for a more memorable approach. Taking 5 to 6 days depending on your fitness level and guide, the Trek to Petra reportedly follows an old caravan route, and enters the ancient city of Petra via a back door seen by few. Along the way you’ll marvel at sandstone monoliths, navigate gorges and skirt ridges as you marvel at the history of the Wadi Rum desert.
#8: Routeburn Track
Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
You’ve never seen anything like the Routeburn Track… we can pretty much guarantee that. Connecting Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, this hike isn’t particularly long - it’s just under 20 miles start to finish. But what it lacks in duration it more than makes up for with its natural majesty and the diversity of its terrain. Along the way you’ll walk through moss covered forest, cross swing bridges, follow the Route Burn Gorge and its accompanying river, pass waterfalls and marvel at the surrounding mountains. This is a natural paradise and a living testament to the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand.
#7: Kungsleden
Gällivare, Sweden
Realistically, you’re probably going to want to make more than one hiking trip to this area of Sweden - that or commit a month of your life to exploring the Kungsleden (which translates to King’s Trail) so that you can explore this natural gem in its entirety. Kungsleden measures just under 300 miles and is typically broken down into a number of separate hikes to make it less daunting. Whichever sections you choose to explore, you’re sure to find yourself awestruck by the your surroundings, the Swedish Lapland mountain landscape. From alpine terrain to birch forests, there’s a lot to see and with mountain cabins every 6 to 12 miles or so, you’ll have trouble picking an end point.
#6: The Torres del Paine “W” Circuit
Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile
The breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park of Chilean Patagonia plays host to roughly a quarter million visitors every year. Though there are day hikes available for more casual tourists, and an 8 to 9 day full circle trail, the 5 to 7 day “W” route is without a doubt the most popular and talked about, and it’s easy to understand why. The trek, which frequently appears on bucket lists of hikers the world over, takes you past lakes, glaciers, mountains and rivers, as well as a stunning mixture of flora and fauna. It’s roughly 15 miles of hiking a day, so it isn’t for the inexperienced, but it’s certainly a trip worth training for.
#5: Kalalau Trail
Kauai, Hawaii, USA
Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful hikes in America, if not the world, Kalalau trail is only 11 miles long (22 round trip), but every single foot of it will take your breath away. Running along the Na Pali Coast, dipping into valleys and passing caves, the trail offers the sort of views that will having you rubbing your eyes in disbelief. That being said, you’ll want to stay alert, Kalalau is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced. You’ll often be hiking along narrow cliff-side paths; and the beaches, though lovely, have strong tides. So enjoy, but trek and swim carefully!
#4: Tour du Mont Blanc
France, Italy and Switzerland
Looking to do a little tour of Europe? You can visit three countries on this hike alone! This well-trod circuit takes hikers across the borders of France, Italy and Switzerland, and through a plethora of environments including forests, meadows, mountain passes and glacial valleys. Of course, there’s culture to be found along the way too, as the Tour Du Mont Blanc also brings you into a number of quaint mountain villages, including Les Houches, Trient and La Forclaz, among others. Stretching 110 miles and taking you around the highest peak in Europe, Tour du Mont Blanc is a European hiking dream.
#3: Appalachian Trail
Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, Georgia, USA
Do you think you have what it takes to hike the Appalachian trail in its entirety? Fair warning, at 2,190 miles long, it’s a serious, roughly half-year commitment which many attempt, but few complete. Thankfully, there are plenty of points where you can jump on and off along the way, for those looking to simply tackle a portion of the trail on their own terms. Given that it’s the single longest foot trail in the world, and the fact that it passes through 14 different states, it’s hard to generalize about the Trail, but if you’re interested in getting a sweet taste of America’s world-famous wilderness, the Appalachian is waiting for you.
#2: Mount Kilimanjaro
Moshi, Tanzania
There are a number of routes that can be taken to reach the peak of Tanzania’s legendary Mount Kilimanjaro. Rongai, Lemosho and Machame are arguably more picturesque and offer more unique sights, as well as more time to acclimatize to the changing altitude. But because they’re more meandering, they also take longer. Not only is the Marangu route quicker, it also comes with the added perk of huts to sleep in rather than tent camping - but to each their own! Regardless of which route you take to the top of Kilimanjaro (Uhuru Peak), you’re in for a once in a lifetime experience.
#1: Inca Trail
Cusco, Peru
Widely considered to be one of the most remarkable hikes in the world, the Inca Trail has the added bonus of carrying you to a world renowned destination - Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca Ruins. Like Kilimanjaro, the Inca Trail refers to a number of distinct but overlapping trails - Mollepata, One Day and Classic - the latter being the most popular. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be passing incredible vistas, experiencing lush forest and jungle, and of course, ruins! The journey to Machu Picchu is, according to many, every bit as breathtaking as the final destination. So start training, book a flight, lace up your boots and go see for yourself!
Dust off your boots and backpack… we’re going for a walk. Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore.
For this list, we’re looking at the most unique, thrilling, challenging and beautiful hiking trails and treks from around the globe.
#10: Everest Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu, Nepal
Given that only a few thousand people have successfully reached the summit of the famous Mount Everest, it’s safe to say that this iconic climb is not for everyone. That being said, for those who want to see the iconic natural landmark firsthand, the 14 day trek from Kathmandu to the base of Everest is a journey in its own right. The hike will take you through some truly stunning scenery, isolated monasteries, small rural villages and across bridges that are sure to give you vertigo as you ascend to an altitude of 17,600 feet. It’s not a cheap trip by any means, but it’s truly a once in a lifetime experience.
#9: The Trek to Petra
Dana to Petra, Jordan
Petra requires no introduction. This legendary city, the one time capital of the Nabataean Empire, long lost to all but the local Bedouin people, is a archeological destination that attracts the curious from around the world. Most people simply take a bus to get there, but this trek definitely makes for a more memorable approach. Taking 5 to 6 days depending on your fitness level and guide, the Trek to Petra reportedly follows an old caravan route, and enters the ancient city of Petra via a back door seen by few. Along the way you’ll marvel at sandstone monoliths, navigate gorges and skirt ridges as you marvel at the history of the Wadi Rum desert.
#8: Routeburn Track
Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
You’ve never seen anything like the Routeburn Track… we can pretty much guarantee that. Connecting Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, this hike isn’t particularly long - it’s just under 20 miles start to finish. But what it lacks in duration it more than makes up for with its natural majesty and the diversity of its terrain. Along the way you’ll walk through moss covered forest, cross swing bridges, follow the Route Burn Gorge and its accompanying river, pass waterfalls and marvel at the surrounding mountains. This is a natural paradise and a living testament to the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand.
#7: Kungsleden
Gällivare, Sweden
Realistically, you’re probably going to want to make more than one hiking trip to this area of Sweden - that or commit a month of your life to exploring the Kungsleden (which translates to King’s Trail) so that you can explore this natural gem in its entirety. Kungsleden measures just under 300 miles and is typically broken down into a number of separate hikes to make it less daunting. Whichever sections you choose to explore, you’re sure to find yourself awestruck by the your surroundings. From alpine terrain to birch forests, there’s a lot to see and with mountain cabins every 6 to 12 miles or so, you’ll have trouble picking an end point.
On Thu, Jul 19, 2018 at 11:52 AM, J Karpati
Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore
Dust off your boots and backpack… we’re going for a walk. Welcome to MojoTravels, and today we’ll be counting down our picks for the Top 10 Legendary Hiking Trails You NEED to Explore.
For this list, we’re looking at the most unique, thrilling, challenging and beautiful hiking trails and treks from around the globe.
#10: Everest Base Camp Trek
Kathmandu, Nepal
Given that only a few thousand people have successfully reached the summit of the famous Mount Everest, it’s safe to say that this iconic climb is not for everyone. That being said, for those who want to see the iconic natural landmark firsthand, the 14 day trek from Kathmandu to the base of Everest is a journey in its own right. The hike will take you through some truly stunning scenery, isolated monasteries, small rural villages and across bridges that are sure to give you vertigo as you ascend to an altitude of 17,600 feet. It’s not a cheap trip by any means, but it’s truly a once in a lifetime experience.
#9: The Trek to Petra
Dana to Petra, Jordan
Petra requires no introduction. This legendary city, the one time capital of the Nabataean Empire, long lost to all but the local Bedouin people, is a archeological destination that attracts the curious from around the world. Most people simply take a bus to get there, but this trek definitely makes for a more memorable approach. Taking 5 to 6 days depending on your fitness level and guide, the Trek to Petra reportedly follows an old caravan route, and enters the ancient city of Petra via a back door seen by few. Along the way you’ll marvel at sandstone monoliths, navigate gorges and skirt ridges as you marvel at the history of the Wadi Rum desert.
#8: Routeburn Track
Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, New Zealand
You’ve never seen anything like the Routeburn Track… we can pretty much guarantee that. Connecting Mount Aspiring National Park to Fiordland National Park, this hike isn’t particularly long - it’s just under 20 miles start to finish. But what it lacks in duration it more than makes up for with its natural majesty and the diversity of its terrain. Along the way you’ll walk through moss covered forest, cross swing bridges, follow the Route Burn Gorge and its accompanying river, pass waterfalls and marvel at the surrounding mountains. This is a natural paradise and a living testament to the unparalleled beauty of New Zealand.
#7: Kungsleden
Gällivare, Sweden
Realistically, you’re probably going to want to make more than one hiking trip to this area of Sweden - that or commit a month of your life to exploring the Kungsleden (which translates to King’s Trail) so that you can explore this natural gem in its entirety. Kungsleden measures just under 300 miles and is typically broken down into a number of separate hikes to make it less daunting. Whichever sections you choose to explore, you’re sure to find yourself awestruck by the your surroundings, the Swedish Lapland mountain landscape. From alpine terrain to birch forests, there’s a lot to see and with mountain cabins every 6 to 12 miles or so, you’ll have trouble picking an end point.
#6: The Torres del Paine “W” Circuit
Torres del Paine National Park, Patagonia, Chile
The breathtaking Torres del Paine National Park of Chilean Patagonia plays host to roughly a quarter million visitors every year. Though there are day hikes available for more casual tourists, and an 8 to 9 day full circle trail, the 5 to 7 day “W” route is without a doubt the most popular and talked about, and it’s easy to understand why. The trek, which frequently appears on bucket lists of hikers the world over, takes you past lakes, glaciers, mountains and rivers, as well as a stunning mixture of flora and fauna. It’s roughly 15 miles of hiking a day, so it isn’t for the inexperienced, but it’s certainly a trip worth training for.
#5: Kalalau Trail
Kauai, Hawaii, USA
Widely considered to be one of the most beautiful hikes in America, if not the world, Kalalau trail is only 11 miles long (22 round trip), but every single foot of it will take your breath away. Running along the Na Pali Coast, dipping into valleys and passing caves, the trail offers the sort of views that will having you rubbing your eyes in disbelief. That being said, you’ll want to stay alert, Kalalau is not for the faint of heart or the inexperienced. You’ll often be hiking along narrow cliff-side paths; and the beaches, though lovely, have strong tides. So enjoy, but trek and swim carefully!
#4: Tour du Mont Blanc
France, Italy and Switzerland
Looking to do a little tour of Europe? You can visit three countries on this hike alone! This well-trod circuit takes hikers across the borders of France, Italy and Switzerland, and through a plethora of environments including forests, meadows, mountain passes and glacial valleys. Of course, there’s culture to be found along the way too, as the Tour Du Mont Blanc also brings you into a number of quaint mountain villages, including Les Houches, Trient and La Forclaz, among others. Stretching 110 miles and taking you around the highest peak in Europe, Tour du Mont Blanc is a European hiking dream.
#3: Appalachian Trail
Katahdin, Maine to Springer Mountain, Georgia, USA
Do you think you have what it takes to hike the Appalachian trail in its entirety? Fair warning, at 2,190 miles long, it’s a serious, roughly half-year commitment which many attempt, but few complete. Thankfully, there are plenty of points where you can jump on and off along the way, for those looking to simply tackle a portion of the trail on their own terms. Given that it’s the single longest foot trail in the world, and the fact that it passes through 14 different states, it’s hard to generalize about the Trail, but if you’re interested in getting a sweet taste of America’s world-famous wilderness, the Appalachian is waiting for you.
#2: Mount Kilimanjaro
Moshi, Tanzania
There are a number of routes that can be taken to reach the peak of Tanzania’s legendary Mount Kilimanjaro. Rongai, Lemosho and Machame are arguably more picturesque and offer more unique sights, as well as more time to acclimatize to the changing altitude. But because they’re more meandering, they also take longer. Not only is the Marangu route quicker, it also comes with the added perk of huts to sleep in rather than tent camping - but to each their own! Regardless of which route you take to the top of Kilimanjaro (Uhuru Peak), you’re in for a once in a lifetime experience.
#1: Inca Trail
Cusco, Peru
Widely considered to be one of the most remarkable hikes in the world, the Inca Trail has the added bonus of carrying you to a world renowned destination - Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca Ruins. Like Kilimanjaro, the Inca Trail refers to a number of distinct but overlapping trails - Mollepata, One Day and Classic - the latter being the most popular. Whichever route you choose, you’ll be passing incredible vistas, experiencing lush forest and jungle, and of course, ruins! The journey to Machu Picchu is, according to many, every bit as breathtaking as the final destination. So start training, book a flight, lace up your boots and go see for yourself!
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