Top 10 Hidden Hiking Trails Around the World
For those with an adventurous spirit, hidden hiking trails offer a unique way to experience nature away from the crowds. These trails, often lesser-known and off the beaten path, provide unparalleled beauty and solitude. Here are the top 10 hidden hiking trails around the world that promise unforgettable experiences for those who seek them out.
1. The Drakensberg Traverse, South Africa
Nestled in the stunning Drakensberg Mountains, this challenging 220-kilometer trail offers breathtaking views, ancient rock art, and the chance to see wildlife like baboons and eland. The trail takes hikers through rugged landscapes, across high mountain passes, and along pristine rivers. It’s a multi-day trek that requires preparation, but the rewards are immense, including the chance to camp under the stars in one of Africa's most beautiful mountain ranges.
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2. Kungsleden, Sweden
Known as the "King's Trail," Kungsleden is a 440-kilometer route in northern Sweden. While some sections are popular, there are hidden parts of the trail, especially between Kvikkjokk and Ammarnäs, where hikers can enjoy serene landscapes of vast wilderness, alpine terrain, and crystal-clear streams. The trail passes through four national parks and a nature reserve, offering a diverse range of scenery from dense forests to arctic tundra. The northern lights can often be seen in late summer and early autumn, adding a magical element to the journey.
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3. Saklıkent Gorge, Türkiye
Located in southwestern Türkiye, Saklıkent Gorge is one of the deepest canyons in the world. This hidden gem offers a unique hiking experience through icy waters and towering limestone walls. The trail is accessible and perfect for a summer adventure. Visitors can walk through the gorge's narrow passages, wade through its icy river, and explore its beautiful waterfalls. Nearby, traditional Turkish villages offer hospitality and a glimpse into local culture.
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4. Colca Canyon, Peru
Deeper than the Grand Canyon, Colca Canyon in southern Peru is an adventurer’s paradise. This trail winds through remote Andean villages, terraced fields, and offers the chance to see the majestic Andean condor soaring above. Hikers will encounter ancient ruins, hot springs, and breathtaking views of the canyon's dramatic cliffs. The trail also provides a unique cultural experience, as it passes through areas inhabited by the indigenous Collagua and Cabana peoples, who maintain their traditional way of life.
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5. Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
While Iceland’s Laugavegur Trail is gaining popularity, there are still less-traveled sections that offer solitude and raw beauty. The trail takes hikers through otherworldly landscapes of volcanic deserts, hot springs, and glaciers. The journey starts in the geothermal area of Landmannalaugar and ends in the lush valley of Thórsmörk. Along the way, hikers will see colorful rhyolite mountains, steaming vents, and the black sand deserts of Mælifellssandur. The contrasting landscapes make this trail one of the most visually striking hikes in the world.
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6. The Abel Tasman Coast Track, New Zealand
Though part of New Zealand’s Great Walks, the Abel Tasman Coast Track still has hidden stretches that provide solitude. The trail offers golden beaches, lush forests, and the chance to spot marine wildlife like seals and dolphins. The track is well-maintained and suitable for hikers of all levels. It passes through picturesque bays, tidal estuaries, and native bush. Hikers can also take advantage of the water taxis and kayaking opportunities to explore the coastline from a different perspective.
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7. Tiger Leaping Gorge, China
Located in Yunnan Province, Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world. This dramatic trail offers stunning views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the Yangtze River far below. The gorge is named after a legend in which a tiger leapt across the river to escape a hunter. Hikers will traverse narrow paths carved into the cliffside, cross suspension bridges, and encounter traditional Naxi villages. The trail's combination of natural beauty and cultural heritage makes it a truly unique experience.
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8. The Haute Route, France to Switzerland
Connecting Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland, the Haute Route is a high-altitude trek that is less crowded than the popular Tour du Mont Blanc. The trail offers magnificent views of the Alps, including iconic peaks like the Matterhorn. The route takes hikers through remote alpine valleys, across glaciated terrain, and over high mountain passes. It’s a challenging trek that requires good fitness and mountaineering skills, but the panoramic vistas and pristine environments make it worthwhile.
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9. The West Coast Trail, Canada
Located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, the West Coast Trail is a rugged 75-kilometer trek along some of the world’s most stunning coastline. The trail offers dramatic cliffs, lush rainforests, and the chance to see whales and sea lions. Originally created to rescue shipwreck survivors, the trail is now a popular but challenging hike. Hikers will navigate ladders, suspension bridges, and beach routes while experiencing the raw beauty of the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
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10. Simien Mountains, Ethiopia
The Simien Mountains offer an incredible hiking experience with unique wildlife, including the Ethiopian wolf and the Gelada baboon. The trails take hikers through dramatic landscapes of jagged peaks and deep valleys, providing a true sense of adventure. The highest peak, Ras Dashen, stands at 4,550 meters and offers breathtaking views. The park is also home to endemic plant species and spectacular waterfalls, making it a UNESCO World Heritage site.
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Exploring hidden hiking trails around the world offers a unique way to connect with nature and experience landscapes that few have seen. Whether you're trekking through the deep canyons of Peru or the icy gorges of Turkey, these trails promise adventures that will stay with you for a lifetime. So lace up your boots, pack your backpack, and get ready to discover the hidden gems of the hiking world.