Long-distance hiking is more than just an outdoor activity; it’s an adventure that challenges the body, mind, and spirit. Whether you’re looking for breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, or physical endurance, the world’s best trails offer something for every explorer. In this 2025 adventure guide, we’ll explore the top long-distance hiking trails that should be on every trekker’s bucket list.
1. Appalachian Trail (USA)
Length: 2,190 miles (3,524 km)
Duration: 5-7 months
Difficulty: Challenging
Stretching from Georgia to Maine, the Appalachian Trail is one of the most iconic long-distance hikes in the world. With diverse terrains, stunning landscapes, and a tight-knit community of hikers, this trail is perfect for those seeking a life-changing journey.
2. Pacific Crest Trail (USA)
Length: 2,650 miles (4,265 km)
Duration: 5-6 months
Difficulty: Very challenging
Running from Mexico to Canada through California, Oregon, and Washington, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is a dream for serious hikers. The breathtaking Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains make it a must-hike for 2025.
3. Camino de Santiago (Spain)
Length: 500-620 miles (800-1,000 km)
Duration: 30-45 days
Difficulty: Moderate
The Camino de Santiago, also known as the Way of St. James, is a historic pilgrimage route leading to Santiago de Compostela. Unlike rugged wilderness hikes, this trail offers cultural encounters, historical sites, and well-established infrastructure.
4. Te Araroa Trail (New Zealand)
Length: 1,864 miles (3,000 km)
Duration: 3-6 months
Difficulty: Challenging
Te Araroa, meaning “The Long Pathway,” spans the length of New Zealand, from Cape Reinga in the north to Bluff in the south. This trail offers a mix of coastal walks, mountain climbs, and rich Maori heritage, making it an unforgettable experience.
5. Tour du Mont Blanc (France, Italy, Switzerland)
Length: 105 miles (170 km)
Duration: 7-11 days
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
This classic European trek circles the Mont Blanc massif and passes through France, Italy, and Switzerland. With stunning alpine scenery, charming villages, and excellent mountain refuges, it remains a top destination for hikers.
6. Great Himalayan Trail (Nepal)
Length: 1,056 miles (1,700 km)
Duration: 4-6 months
Difficulty: Extremely challenging
The Great Himalayan Trail (GHT) is one of the most difficult and remote long-distance hikes. It traverses the entire length of Nepal, passing through some of the highest and most breathtaking mountain landscapes in the world.
7. Kungsleden (Sweden)
Length: 270 miles (440 km)
Duration: 3-4 weeks
Difficulty: Moderate
The “King’s Trail” in Sweden offers hikers a chance to explore the untouched wilderness of the Arctic Circle. With stunning fjords, northern lights, and reindeer sightings, it’s a unique and peaceful trekking experience.
8. Israel National Trail (Israel)
Length: 620 miles (1,000 km)
Duration: 45-60 days
Difficulty: Moderate
From the lush north to the arid Negev Desert, the Israel National Trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, ancient historical sites, and modern cities, making it a fascinating mix of adventure and culture.
9. Continental Divide Trail (USA)
Length: 3,100 miles (4,989 km)
Duration: 5-7 months
Difficulty: Extremely challenging
The Continental Divide Trail (CDT) is one of the toughest hikes in North America. It traverses the Rocky Mountains from Mexico to Canada, offering breathtaking scenery and extreme conditions for the most experienced hikers.
10. The Great Divide Trail (Canada)
Length: 746 miles (1,200 km)
Duration: 2-3 months
Difficulty: Very challenging
The Great Divide Trail runs through the Canadian Rockies, providing rugged terrain, high alpine passes, and some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in North America.
Conclusion
Whether you seek adventure, solitude, or cultural exploration, these long-distance hiking trails offer experiences that will stay with you for a lifetime. As 2025 approaches, start planning your next great trek and take on the challenge of the world’s most iconic hiking routes!
FAQs
1. What is the best long-distance hiking trail for beginners?
The Camino de Santiago and Kungsleden are great choices for first-time long-distance hikers due to their moderate difficulty and well-marked paths.
2. How do I prepare for a long-distance hike?
Training, researching trail conditions, packing lightweight gear, and ensuring proper nutrition are key to a successful hike.
3. What is the hardest long-distance hiking trail?
The Great Himalayan Trail and Continental Divide Trail are among the most difficult due to extreme weather and challenging terrain.
4. Is it safe to hike long-distance trails alone?
Yes, but it’s essential to be well-prepared, carry a GPS device, inform others of your plans, and choose well-traveled routes.
5. What is the most scenic long-distance hiking trail?
Many consider the Tour du Mont Blanc and Te Araroa to be among the most scenic due to their stunning mountain landscapes and diverse environments.
