Whether you’re a beginner looking for a manageable day hike or a seasoned trekker seeking a world-class challenge, the planet is full of epic hikes that offer breathtaking landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unforgettable adventures. From towering peaks to serene coastal paths, here’s a list of the top 10 hikes around the world that cater to adventurers of all levels.

1. Inca Trail, Peru
   Level: Moderate to Strenuous
   Distance: 26 miles (42 km)
   Best For: History buffs, cultural explorers
   Why It’s Epic: The Inca Trail is one of the world’s most famous hikes, leading trekkers through lush cloud forests, Incan ruins, and rugged mountain passes to the iconic Machu Picchu. This 4-day trek provides not only stunning views but also a profound historical and cultural experience. Permits are limited, so booking months in advance is highly recommended. The hike ends with an incredible sunrise over the ancient ruins, offering an unforgettable sense of accomplishment.
2. Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile
   Level: Strenuous
   Distance: 75 miles (120 km)
   Best For: Adventurers seeking dramatic wilderness
   Why It’s Epic: Patagonia’s Torres del Paine National Park is home to some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth—jagged granite peaks, expansive glaciers, and pristine turquoise lakes. The Torres del Paine Circuit is a multi-day trek that takes you through some of the park’s most remote and beautiful areas. The terrain is challenging, with unpredictable weather conditions, but the reward is a close-up view of some of the world’s most awe-inspiring scenery.
3. Trekking in the Dolomites, Italy
   Level: Easy to Strenuous
   Distance: Varies (3–12 miles per day)
   Best For: Scenic beauty and cultural immersion
   Why It’s Epic: The Dolomites are a UNESCO World Heritage site in northern Italy, known for their dramatic limestone peaks and lush alpine meadows. The region offers a variety of hiking options, from easy day walks to challenging multi-day treks. Along the way, you’ll find mountain huts serving delicious Italian food, making it a perfect combination of adventure and culture. Whether you’re hiking for a day or several, the region’s beauty is sure to leave you awestruck.
4. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
   Level: Moderate to Strenuous
   Distance: Varies (5–9 days)
   Best For: Summit seekers
   Why It’s Epic: As Africa’s tallest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro (19,341 feet) offers a non-technical climb that takes you through five different ecological zones, from tropical rainforest to alpine desert. The trek is challenging due to the altitude, but it doesn’t require technical climbing skills, making it accessible to experienced trekkers. Reaching the summit, Uhuru Peak, is an unforgettable experience, and the views from the top are some of the best in the world.
5. The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
   Level: Moderate
   Distance: 34 miles (55 km)
   Best For: Nature lovers and volcanic landscapes
   Why It’s Epic: Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail takes you through one of the most unique landscapes on Earth—volcanic deserts, geothermal hot springs, glacial rivers, and colorful rhyolite mountains. This 4-day trek allows hikers to experience Iceland’s raw beauty and geological wonders, including steaming fumaroles and towering waterfalls. Every step of the journey offers new, otherworldly scenery, making it a must-do for nature enthusiasts.
6. Everest Base Camp Trek, Nepal
   Level: Moderate to Strenuous
   Distance: 40 miles (64 km) round-trip
   Best For: Mountain lovers and trekkers with limited time
   Why It’s Epic: The Everest Base Camp Trek is a bucket-list hike for anyone who dreams of seeing the world’s highest mountain up close. This 12-day trek takes you deep into the heart of the Himalayas, passing through Sherpa villages, Buddhist monasteries, and forests of rhododendron. While the trail does not require technical climbing skills, it’s physically demanding due to the altitude and rugged terrain. The journey culminates in a view of Everest that’s nothing short of majestic.
7. Mount Fuji, Japan
   Level: Moderate
   Distance: 12.4 miles (20 km)
   Best For: Cultural and spiritual seekers
   Why It’s Epic: Climbing Mount Fuji is not just a physical challenge—it’s a spiritual journey. This iconic dormant volcano offers a well-maintained trail to the summit, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Japan’s countryside. The hike can be done in a single day, but many choose to camp overnight and catch the sunrise from the top, a moment known as “Goraiko,” that feels almost mystical.
8. The Haute Route, France/Switzerland
   Level: Strenuous
   Distance: 120 miles (190 km)
   Best For: Experienced hikers and mountaineers
   Why It’s Epic: The Haute Route is one of Europe’s premier alpine treks, linking Chamonix, France to Zermatt, Switzerland. This multi-day journey takes you through some of the most spectacular high-mountain terrain in the Alps, including glaciers, rocky ridges, and towering peaks like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. The trail is strenuous and requires a good level of fitness, but the breathtaking views and sense of achievement make it worthwhile for experienced hikers.
9. The Overland Track, Australia
   Level: Moderate
   Distance: 40 miles (65 km)
   Best For: Wilderness lovers and nature photographers
   Why It’s Epic: Located in Tasmania’s Wilderness World Heritage Area, the Overland Track is one of Australia’s most beautiful hikes. The 6-day trek takes you through temperate rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains, with stunning views of the Cradle Mountain and Lake St. Clair. It’s a challenging but manageable hike for most, offering a true sense of wilderness and an opportunity to experience unique Australian flora and fauna.
10. Zion Narrows, USA
    Level: Moderate
    Distance: 16 miles (25 km) round-trip
    Best For: Water lovers and canyon enthusiasts
    Why It’s Epic: The Narrows in Zion National Park is one of the most unique hikes in the United States. This hike takes you through the Virgin River, with towering canyon walls on either side. The water levels can vary, sometimes requiring wading or swimming, and hikers traverse the river while enjoying the serenity of the canyon. The hike is breathtaking and surreal, offering one of the most immersive canyon experiences you can find.

These 10 hikes represent some of the most iconic and epic trekking experiences in the world. Whether you’re seeking rugged mountains, volcanic landscapes, or cultural exploration, each of these trails offers something unique. From challenging multi-day treks to breathtaking day hikes, there’s an adventure for every level of hiker. Lace up your boots and get ready to explore some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth!