Hiking is an enjoyable way to exercise, explore the outdoors, and clear your mind. If you’re new to hiking, finding the right trail ideas with hiking gear can make all the difference. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the world for beginners.
The Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is a popular hiking destination in Peru, and for good reason. The trail winds through the Andes mountains, past ancient Inca ruins, and ends at the famous Machu Picchu. The trail is well-marked and relatively easy, making it perfect for beginners. However, it’s important to note that you’ll need to book a permit in advance to hike the Inca Trail.
The West Highland Way, Scotland
The West Highland Way is a 96-mile hiking trail that runs from Milngavie to Fort William in Scotland. The trail offers stunning views of the Scottish Highlands and passes through quaint towns and villages. It’s a well-maintained trail with plenty of options for accommodation and refreshments along the way.
The Milford Track, New Zealand
The Milford Track is often referred to as the “finest walk in the world.” This 33-mile trail in New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park offers breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, rainforests, and mountain peaks. Moreover, the trail is well-maintained, and there are plenty of huts along the way for accommodation.
The Camino de Santiago, Spain
The Camino de Santiago is a network of hiking trails that lead to the city of Santiago de Compostela in Spain. The trails have been used for centuries by pilgrims, and today, they’re popular with hikers from around the world. The Camino is well-marked and offers a range of accommodations, from hostels to luxury hotels.
The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
The Laugavegur Trail is a 34-mile trek through Iceland’s highlands. The trail offers a diverse range of landscapes, including glaciers, hot springs, and volcanic craters. It’s a challenging trail, but the well-marked path and stunning scenery make it a popular choice for beginners.
The Appalachian Trail, USA
The entire trail is a significant undertaking, there are plenty of shorter sections that are perfect for beginners. Moreover, the trail offers stunning views of the Appalachian Mountains and passes through quaint towns and villages.
The Overland Track, Australia
The Overland Track is a 40-mile trail through Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The trail offers stunning views of the Australian wilderness, including ancient forests and alpine landscapes. The trail is well-marked, and there are huts along the way for accommodation.
The Kumano Kodo, Japan
The Kumano Kodo is a network of trails that lead to Japan’s Kumano Sanzan, a set of three grand shrines. The trails have been used for centuries by pilgrims, and today, they’re popular with hikers from around the world. Moreover, the Kumano Kodo is well-marked, and there are plenty of accommodations along the way.
