Top 10 Hiking Trails to Explore This Summer with Avenza Maps
Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots, grab your gear, and hit the trails! Whether you're a seasoned hiker or just starting out, having the right tools can make all the difference in your outdoor adventures. With Avenza Maps, you can ensure a safe, enjoyable, and well-planned hike. Here are our top 10 hiking trails to explore this summer, enhanced by the Avenza Maps app.
1. Appalachian Trail, Eastern United States
Stretching over 2,200 miles, the Appalachian Trail is a must for any serious hiker. Completed in 1937, the trail winds through 14 states, offering a diverse range of environments from lush forests to rocky peaks. It passes through iconic landmarks such as the Smoky Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, and provides a unique opportunity for hikers to immerse themselves in nature. And while few can tackle the entire trail in one go, the Appalachian Trail offers countless day hikes and multi-day excursions. Whether undertaking a thru-hike or exploring its sections over time, the trail offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Eastern United States.
Check out these maps:
2. John Muir Trail, California
Named after the famous naturalist, the John Muir Trail offers 211 miles of breathtaking scenery through the Sierra Nevada. This iconic trail is celebrated not only for its stunning natural beauty but also for its challenging terrain and remote wilderness experience. Permits are required for hiking the John Muir Trail, and regulations are in place to preserve the natural environment and ensure a sustainable experience for all visitors. Overall, the John Muir Trail offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for hikers seeking to immerse themselves in the unparalleled beauty and solitude of the Sierra Nevada. Whether tackling the entire trail or exploring its segments, adventurers are sure to be captivated by its rich natural history.
Check out this map:
3. Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Located in Alberta, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning natural beauty and rich biodiversity. Established in 1885, it is Canada's oldest national park and attracts millions of visitors each year seeking adventure and tranquility amidst its pristine wilderness.
Banff is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, featuring towering mountains, clear lakes, and diverse wildlife. Popular trails like the Plain of Six Glaciers or Lake Agnes are perfect day hikes, and the turquoise-blue lakes such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake offer opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and simply enjoying the serene surroundings. Whether exploring the vibrant town of Banff with its shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions, or venturing into the backcountry for a wilderness camping experience, Banff National Park offers something for every outdoor enthusiast. Its combination of natural wonders and recreational opportunities makes it a must-visit destination for those seeking to connect with nature in one of Canada's most cherished landscapes.
Check out these maps:
4. Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile
Nestled in the southern Andes, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve draws adventurers and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. For those looking to venture internationally, Torres del Paine offers unparalleled beauty with its rugged mountains, blue icebergs, and expansive plains. Adventurers can explore the park through various trails, with the W Trek being a popular route that winds through valleys, forests, and along the shores of pristine lakes. More challenging hikes, such as the full Circuit or "O" Trek, offer a deeper immersion into the remote corners of the park, where solitude and rugged landscapes await those willing to trek deeper into its heart.
Whether camping under the star-studded Patagonian sky or enjoying a cozy retreat after a day of exploration, visitors are treated to unparalleled views and experiences that make Torres del Paine a bucket-list destination for nature lovers and adventurers alike.
Check out these maps:
5. Zion National Park, Utah
Located in Utah, Zion National Park is like stepping into a real-life desert adventure playground. Zion's iconic red rock cliffs and deep canyons, sculpted by the Virgin River, create a stunning backdrop that changes with the light, showcasing hues of red, orange, and pink throughout the day. The park's signature hikes, such as Angels Landing and The Narrows, provide thrilling experiences amidst this desert wonderland. Angels Landing challenges hikers with its narrow ridges and rewards those who reach its summit with panoramic views of Zion Canyon below. The Narrows, on the other hand, invites adventurers to hike through the Virgin River, navigating between towering canyon walls that occasionally narrow to just a few feet apart, creating an intimate and immersive experience.
Whether you're hiking, driving, or just chilling by the river, Zion National Park is all about soaking in the wild beauty and feeling that rush of being in nature at its most awe-inspiring.
Check out these maps:
6. Inca Trail, Peru
The Inca Trail is like stepping back in time on a crazy adventure that ends with the mind-blowing ruins of Machu Picchu. Spanning 26 miles, this trek offers a journey through stunning mountain scenery, lush cloud forests, and ancient Incan archaeological sites.The Inca Trail is not merely a physical challenge; it is a cultural and historical odyssey that allows adventurers to connect deeply with Peru's ancient past and the remarkable achievements of the Inca civilization.
Arriving at Machu Picchu is the ultimate reward at the end of this epic hike. The views are breathtaking, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the golden light casts a surreal glow over the ruins—an experience that leaves an indelible impression on visitors. The Inca Trail is not just a hike; it's a journey through history and nature that'll leave you breathless.
Check out these maps:
7. Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania
For the adventurous, summiting Mount Kilimanjaro is a bucket-list achievement. Located in Tanzania, Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, and it has various routes to the summit offering different experiences, from lush rainforests to barren alpine deserts. Reaching Uhuru Peak is the ultimate goal of the journey, as it is the highest point in Africa, standing at 19,341 feet (5,895 meters) above sea level. It requires physical and mental strength as it takes determination to push through the tough altitude and weather conditions, but the reward is breathtaking views, especially at sunrise or sunset when the sky lights up with colors.
Check out these maps:
8. West Highland Way, Scotland
This 96-mile trail through the Scottish Highlands offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. The West Highland Way begins in Milngavie, a suburb of Glasgow, extending northwards to Fort William, passing through some of Scotland's most spectacular scenery. Along the journey, hikers encounter a diverse array of scenery, from peaceful lake shores to the rugged mountains surrounding Ben Nevis, the highest mountain in the UK. Although Ben Nevis is not directly on the trail, its towering presence on the horizon highlights the area's dramatic geological heritage.
Thanks to meticulous upkeep, the path remains accessible to both seasoned hikers and those new to exploring Scotland’s outdoor wonders. Whether you seek a challenging trek or a leisurely hike amidst breathtaking views, the West Highland Way promises an unforgettable adventure through Scotland’s iconic terrain.
Check out this map:
9. Cinque Terre, Italy
For those who prefer coastal hikes, the Cinque Terre offers stunning cliffside trails linking five charming villages on the Italian Riviera. The most famous route is the Sentiero Azzurro, or Blue Trail, which winds through vineyards, olive groves, and Mediterranean plants, offering hikers breathtaking coastal views. Whether you start from Monterosso al Mare or Riomaggiore, you'll find thrilling hikes that showcase Cinque Terre's rugged coastline and terraced hillsides.
Beyond its natural beauty, each village within Cinque Terre reveals a rich maritime history and centuries-old traditions. Whether exploring the medieval streets of Vernazza, wandering through Corniglia's vineyards, or catching the unforgettable sunset views from Manarola's picturesque harbor, Cinque Terre is a must-visit for travelers seeking both adventure and charm.
Check out these maps:
10. Overland Track, Tasmania, Australia
The Overland Track is a six-day trek through the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Featuring ancient rainforests, alpine meadows, and rugged mountains, this hike is perfect for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Starting from Cradle Mountain and ending at Lake St Clair, Australia's deepest natural lake, the Overland Track takes the hikers on a journey through some of Tasmania's most iconic landscapes. Along the way, adventurers encounter pristine rivers, crystal-clear lakes, and maybe even spot some unique Aussie wildlife like wombats or Tasmanian devils.
The Overland Track is not just a hike; it's an immersive journey through Tasmania's natural wonders and rich biodiversity. Whether you're drawn to the challenge of the trail, the serenity of the wilderness, or the chance to disconnect and reconnect with nature, this trek offers an experience that will leave a lasting impression.
Check out this map:
Download Avenza Maps
Ready to explore the great outdoors like never before? With our comprehensive guides and the Avenza Maps app, you'll have everything you need to navigate with confidence. Download Avenza Maps today to access detailed maps for each section of your journey. Whether you're hiking, biking, or exploring a new city, Avenza Maps is your secret weapon to uncovering hidden gems and historical hotspots along the way. Don't wait—start your adventure now with Avenza Maps!