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Training and Planning for Long Distance Walks

Wendy Bumgardner is a freelance writer covering walking and other health and fitness topics and has competed in more than 1,000 walking events.

Michele Stanten is a walking coach, certified group fitness instructor, and running coach. She is the author of Walk Off Weight and The Walking Solution.

• How Long Does It Take?

How Fast Do You Need to Go?

• What Gear Do You Need?
• What Food Do You Need?

Planning a Long Distance Walk

Rest breaks, take care of your feet.

• More Training Resources

Training is critical for comfort and success at a long-distance walking event. Your training should concentrate on building a base of walking, then increasing your mileage in a systematic fashion. You should also train to wear the gear you will be wearing during your long distance walk.

To reduce your risk of training injuries, increase your total mileage per week or the distance of your longest walk per week by no more than 10%. This means you will likely spend a few months training. By being methodical, you give your body time to build new muscle, blood supply, and endurance.

How Long Does It Take to Train for a Long-Distance Walk?

For multi-day walks and treks such as the Camino de Santiago, follow a marathon training plan for mileage building and for determining the proper hydration, nutrition, and gear. But you also need to build some back-to-back long days into your training so you can assess any problems that crop up from walking long distances on successive days. You can use these training plans:

• Training Schedule for the Camino de Santiago (21 kilometers/13 miles per day): Use this plan for the Camino or any other multi-day walk that will include hills and natural surfaces and carrying a backpack.
• Training to Walk a Marathon  (42 kilometers/26.2 miles): This walking marathon primer will get you into condition to go longer distances. Besides training, you will learn about nutrition, hydration, and gear.

When training for distances of 50 to 161 kilometers (31 to 100 miles), the longest distance to train should not need to exceed 20 to 25 miles, which you should perform at least twice in the two months prior to the event. Then taper during the month before the event down to a 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) distance.

Ultrarunners have much in common with ultra walkers and indeed they usually mix stretches of walking into longer distance events. Training schedules derived from ultrarunning are good for walkers as well.

Forget training for any speed faster than a 15-minute mile. You will need endurance, not speed, and you want to build mental stamina for walking for hours and hours at a steady pace.

Gear Up for a Long Walk

All clothing, shoes, sunscreen, packs, etc., need to be road-tested on your longer training days well in advance of the event. Now is the time to experiment; you don't want anything that is new to you at the event itself. For instance, try out a variety of compression socks to find the pair that works best for you. Plan for the layers you will need to wear, and possibly shed, given the climate and terrain. Choose wicking fabrics that will allow your skin to breathe and cool itself, especially for base layers like underwear .

You will want to  wear gear similar to that of marathon walkers  if your walk will mostly be on pavement or asphalt. You will need to modify that if your route is more off-road or in different seasons. 

Find out what other long-distance walkers have worn on the same route or at the same event. For instance, which running backpacks do they swear by? You may be able to connect with fellow walkers via a Facebook page, or find answers to frequently asked questions on the event's or destination's website. You can also contact the event director (usually via the website or Facebook).

Choose your shoes or walking boots and wear them on your long training days to ensure they will work over a long distance. Packs should be tested on your longer training days to ensure you can carry them comfortably over long distances and that they have the capacity needed. From head to toe, test your gear, including your shoes/boots, socks, underwear, bra, shirt, pants, hat, jacket, and rain gear.

Walkers who are going to cover a long-distance route carrying a pack and using trekking poles need to walk with their gear in the three months before the walk. You want to know how it will perform on the long walk and still have time to replace it if it doesn't. Then you'll need to make sure to test the replacement gear.

Training Nutrition for a Long Walk

Proper sports nutrition will prepare you for endurance events. As an endurance athlete, you should stick with a diet that is a mix of 70% carbohydrates, 20% protein, and 10% fat. Avoid high-protein diets, as they can cause problems with hydration and can strain your kidneys under endurance walking conditions.  

Train with the water, sports drink, food, and snacks you will be using at the event and do not deviate from it during the event. Water is all that is needed for events of 20 kilometers and under, but for longer events, an electrolyte replacement sports drink may be better. Diluting it or leaving out some of the sugar can make it easier on the stomach, but you need to take care to get enough salt as well as water  when walking long distances.

Have your snacks pre-packaged and perhaps labeled by time to be eaten. On ultramarathon distances, you need to eat fat and protein in addition to the carbohydrates provided by sports gels or energy bars . You can get those from candy bars with nuts, trail mix , and peanut butter sandwiches.

Avoid products formulated for shorter distances and power sports. These can cause digestive problems over longer distances.

Planning begins by setting an event as a goal. Considerations include the time of year, distance, transportation to the event, event pace requirements, altitude and hill profile, and climate. If you are going to "do it yourself" (walk a long distance without a supporting event), prepare by researching routes and trails and contacting those who have conquered similar feats.

Study the course maps to know what services are provided along the way and what you must bring with you. Know the terrain and at what point there are hills, pavement, natural trail, shade, and full sun. If possible, drive the course ahead of time to familiarize yourself with it. You may also be able to find apps that are designed for your route, such as the apps available for the Camino de Santiago.

The conventional wisdom is that any breaks you take should be short—to use the bathroom, eat a snack and drink without choking, tie your shoes, or bandage blisters . The body stiffens up pretty fast during breaks and it can take several minutes to get back into the swing of walking after a long break. Take walking breaks instead—keep walking, but at a very slow pace.

Your feet are your most important piece of equipment. On long training days, you should have been experimenting with preparations, socks, etc. to prevent blisters. What works best is specific to the individual.

Try several of the  seven strategies to prevent blisters , which include lubricants, wicking and/or double-layered socks, moleskin, sports tape or blister block pads over areas prone to blister. Along the walk, stop at the first sign of hot spots and doctor your foot with tape, blister block bandages, or whatever method works best for you.

There are other  hazards  you should prepare for as well, as many of them are preventable with the proper food, hydration, and clothing.

More Training Resources 

• UltRunR : Kevin Sayers has a great variety of advice compiled from an email discussion group dedicated to ultrarunning. Most of the advice is transferable to walking the same distance. Many runners give their training schedules for a variety of distance events from 50 kilometers to over 100 miles.
• Ultrarunning Magazine : Browse online articles or subscribe. You'll see advice about every aspect of long distance events.
• Camino de Santiago advice : Learn from other pilgrim walkers at the American Pilgrims on the Camino site and Facebook page , as well as an active forum and apps.

A Word From Verywell

You were built for walking, but you need to plan and train fully before you tackle a long-distance, multi-day walk. If you steadily build your walking time, you can work to avoid injury. If you are physically prepared for your walk, you will be able to enjoy and savor it.

De Sousa J, Cheatham C, Wittbrodt M. The effects of a moisture-wicking fabric shirt on the physiological and perceptual responses during acute exercise in the heat . Appl Ergon. 2014;45(6):1447-53. doi:10.1016/j.apergo.2014.04.006

Frequently asked questions: Getting ready . American Pilgrims on the Camino.

Cuenca-Sánchez M, Navas-Carrillo D, Orenes-Piñero E. Controversies surrounding high-protein diet intake: satiating effect and kidney and bone health . Adv Nutr. 2015;6(3):260-6. doi:10.3945/an.114.007716

By Wendy Bumgardner Wendy Bumgardner is a freelance writer covering walking and other health and fitness topics and has competed in more than 1,000 walking events.

Be an Explorer of the World

Long-Distance Hiking for Beginners [Ultimate Guide]

By Lara Sein , Updated: June 29, 2023 20 Comments

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If you’re reading this cornerstone article, it’s because you’re interested in thru-hiking and trekking (insightful, isn’t it?).

Perhaps you’ve been a day hiker for many years and want to embark on bigger adventures.

Or you’re a complete beginner and want to get started but don’t know where to start.

Maybe you are already a hiker having practiced several treks for several days but you wish to refresh your basics or improve your practice.

No matter where you are today, I am convinced that this article will be very useful and provide you with many answers.

A little vocabulary so that we speak the same language. 


To start, let’s talk about some vocabulary specific to hiking so that you can find your way around.

When we talk about hiking, we often talk about walking for several hours a day (from 2/3h to a full day).

When we talk about trekking or long-distance hiking or thru-hiking or itinerant hiking, we then refer to multi-day hikes, long-distance trails.

These can be practiced in full autonomy, i.e. by managing one’s own food and sleeping in tents (in bivouacs), or by sleeping and eating in stage huts when there are any.

The Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, Colorado Trail in the USA, or the E-Paths in Europe are some of the well-known long-distance trails.

What you need to understand to be well prepared for a long-distance hike

Now that you know that, you probably have a lot of questions running through your head that are blocking you from embarking on your own adventure.

That’s probably what brought you to this article.

I’m going to answer each of your questions, one by one, and maybe I’ll even get you to ask yourself lots of other questions you hadn’t thought of.

But don’t worry, you’ll be fine.

So what are all the points to check in order to be able to start your first trekking with serenity?

• Know your level and identify a suitable trail.
• Thoroughly study the trail once it has been chosen (start/finish, elevation, water/food supplying points, stages, where to sleep, weather, technical characteristics, etc.).
• Physical preparation.
• Choose your equipment and clothing carefully and test them several times over short periods of time before starting your trek.
• Know how to fill your backpack correctly so you don’t break your back;
• Manage the best way possible your diet and hydration throughout your trek;
• Organize your first aid kit in case of problems;

Are you already discouraged by all these things to take care of?

Don’t panic, I am going to tackle all these points here and at the end, you will have all the cards in hand to prepare your first long-distance hike in total autonomy.

The benefits of hiking

Beyond the pleasure of walking in wonderful natural landscapes, did you know that hiking has many benefits for the body and mind?

• It clears the airways.
• It maintains the musculature, the bone, and joint system: it provides a deep muscular strengthening of the whole body, therefore helps to fight against obesity and it is excellent for the bone system.
• It fortifies the brain: it favors the maintenance and/or restoration of cognitive functions such as concentration and memory. It also improves creativity.
• It awakens the senses.
• It develops and reinforces self-confidence.
• And much more!

If you weren’t yet 100% convinced by all the benefits of hiking, now it should be good, right?

When you want to start hiking and especially trekking, it’s not always easy to know how to go about it.

The first step before embarking on your adventure is to prepare yourself physically and mentally.

Planning and preparation should be seen as an investment. The harder you put into getting organized from the start, the more pleasure you will have on the trails.

That’s why I am going to talk about the steps to follow to plan your trek properly.

Steps to prepare a long-distance hike

Step 1: Choose your route

The key step on which all your preparation will be based: choosing your trail.

The choice of your trek will be decisive to make your adventure a memorable experience or your worst nightmare that will disgust you for life.

I agree it’s not easy to choose among all the options available.

Some will prefer to go slowly, starting with an easy, short (1 night) and close to home. Then progress gradually with a two or three-day hike, and or increase the difference in altitude. Etc.

Others will throw themselves directly onto a week-long technical trail.

Everyone has his own technique.

No matter which one you choose, do it according to you, your abilities, your desires, and your motivation above all.

Be realistic and not too ambitious for your first trek.

Questions to ask yourself when choosing the best trail for you:

• How much time do I have available?

If your time is limited, take into account the fact that you need to plan the time to get to the start of your trek and then return home.

• What is the maximum amount of time I am willing to walk for the first time?

Are you physically and mentally fit to walk for several hours at a time for 4 days, a week, or more?

Rely on your abilities and choose less ambitious goals, in the beginning, to better learn your limits and increase the duration next time.

• Which environment and landscapes am I interested in?

Mountains, high peaks, forests, deserts, lakes, coasts near the sea or the ocean, isolated from the world, not too far from villages and towns?

The climate of these different environments may also play a role in your choice.

Sometimes we feel more comfortable at certain temperatures than at others.

To begin, I would suggest choosing a trail that is not too isolated to test your abilities without too much stress.

• What level of difficulty am I able to overcome?

Depending on your current physical level and your mental strength, you will be able to go on hikes that are more or less difficult, with more or less positive or negative gradients (ascents and descents), with steep technical paths, with ladders or chains, or simply an easy trail.

It is therefore necessary to know yourself well.

• Alone or with others?

For your first long trek, rather go with someone or a few people.

It will be less hard psychologically, more motivating, less risky in case of trouble and it will allow you to divide the load of different gears among your friends (so less weight to carry!).

Avoid large groups, it is less pleasant. And also avoid leaving with the children (if too young) and the dog for the first time.

You need to concentrate on your preparation. Later on, you will have plenty of opportunities to take your children and pets with you without any problems.

If, in the end, you decide to go alone, read this guide: Women Hiking Alone. Why and How you Should Do it?

Tips for finding the ideal destination

• Choose a well-known and well-used trail 


Of course, it is always more pleasant to hike without anyone on the trails. However, for a first trek, it is preferable to have hikers nearby who can help you in case of difficulties.

• Ask other experienced hikers for advice on forums or Facebook groups. 


Here are some great hiking forums :

• TrailGroove (USA)
• Reddit (Extensive list of hiking communities)
• Bushwalk Australia
• WalkHighlands (Scotland)

There is no lack of Facebook groups either, I recommend these two I know well:

• Trail Life USA
• All Women All Trails (Yes a woman group, but not only!)
• Take into account the season

If 
this is your first trek, we recommend that you leave in spring, summer, or autumn. Winter is more technical and requires more preparation and skills.

Once you have chosen your destination, be sure to check the recommended seasons for this trail and monitor the weather the week before you leave.

This will prevent you from getting into dangerous situations (torrential rain, rising water, mud, falling trees, snow still present, avalanches , etc.).

Resources for route ideas:

• Worlds best hiking routes (20 Best Hiking & Trekking Holidays Routes in the world)
• AllTrails (Best trails in the United States of America)
• TrailFinder (trails in Vermont and New Hampshire)
• 50 Best Hikes in Europe (Single & Multi-day Trails)
• The Adventure People (Offers a huge range of trekking tours, and they organize everything!)

You could also read some blogs written by real hikers (mine of course, but there are some more good ones out there!). My favorite is Paul Magnanti ‘s blog, a.k.a. Paul Mags, a veteran thru-hiker, where you can find some precious information on how to plan your hike.

Step 2: Study all the aspects of the trail

That’s it, you found your trek. Now you have to prepare your trail stages.

For that, you need the topographic guide of this hike if there is one (book detailing the trails) and/or the topographic map that you will study in detail (USGS map for example).

Here are some sites that can help you:

• National Geographic Maps
• Outdoor Active

To build your itinerary, here are the 3 points to take into account:

• Campsites, huts, or refuges : find out precisely where you will be able to sleep at each stage and find out about the legislation of the bivouac in the state or country where you are going (sometimes it is forbidden to camp under certain altitudes, forbidden at all or in a campsite obligatorily).
• Water source : the sinews of war! Locate all the areas to refill your water supply: reliable river, lake, village… You must never run out of water!
• Terrain : the map (paper or digital) allows you to know the elevation changes you will have to climb or descend and thus deduce how far you or your group will be able to go each day. You will also know where the beautiful viewpoints will be, the moments to take a break, etc.

All the things you need to know about your route:

• Starting and finishing point: not all trails are loops;
• Positive and negative gradient;
• Total distance;
• Recommended time of the year + weather.

Step 3: Come up with a physical training plan for yourself.

Well, that’s not all but now you will have to prepare yourself physically, right?

Because in addition to walking for a long time on physically challenging trails, you’re going to carry a 22 to 33 lbs, at least, (10 to 15kg) backpack.

Add to this, a good torrential rain, destabilizing gust winds, or a stifling heatwave, and your hike can quickly become a nightmare if you’re lacking physical condition.

How to prepare yourself physically?

The best solution is… to walk! There is nothing better to be physically ready than to train by walking every day (walking or cycling, taking the stairs).

Then do short hikes of a few hours, increasing the level of difficulty and duration.

Add your backpack to your workouts with the weight you will have when the day comes.

The physical preparation will depend above all on your current physical fitness.

The further away you go, the more training time you will need.

So don’t start 2 weeks before your departure! Rather, start several months in advance.

A long-distance trek requires:

• Endurance (to last).
• Cardio (so you don’t lose your breath at the slightest little climb).
• Muscular strengthening (to be able to carry a heavy bag on your back continuously).

Choosing the right gear for a thru-hike

But when I needed to buy new ones for my first trek as an adult, I still remember my chaotic beginnings.

I didn’t know what to make of all the shoe models.

Why one pair more than the other?

What to look out for?

Which brand?

Am I really comfortable in these boots?

How am I supposed to feel in it??…

I had spent hours in a specialized store, trying on every pair and watching the parade of salespersons in the store, one after the other trying to give me advice.

When you start hiking, you can quickly find yourself completely lost in front of the multitude of choices and the technical aspects of each piece of gear that you have to take into account but that you don’t know.

For a good start, we will see together the basic equipment that you absolutely need for long-distance hiking.

Be aware that there are no definite rules for choosing the right gear. It depends on everyone’s preferences and especially on the trail you are going to do (climate, duration, etc.).

Recommendation #1:

Take your time before choosing:

• try the gears in the store (even if you will buy it later online!),
• compare them with each other,
• put weights in the backpacks in the store to test them loaded,
• get into the tents on display in the store,
• walk up and down in the alleys of the shop with the shoes you are testing,
• weigh the different kitchen sets and compare their practicality, etc.

Look at the reviews and recommendations of other experienced hikers online.

Recommendation #2:

Always think about the weight of each piece of gear and clothing.

The weight of your backpack loaded on your shoulders will be your worst enemy on the trails if it is too heavy.

Take into account the weight of each product and choose it as light as possible.

You will also see that the lighter the gear is, the more expensive it will be.

It’s up to you to find the right price/weight compromise you’re willing to make.

Basic trekking equipment

The gear without which you won’t get very far. Choose its capacity (liters) according to your hike.

Based on its duration, if you will be in total autonomy (bivouac and food) or with nights in a refuge, you will not need the same quantity of things in your pack.

To give you an idea:

• Trek from 4 to 7 days with nights in refuges: a backpack from 30 to 40 l (in total autonomy: 50 to 65 l);
• Trek in total autonomy of more than a week: 70 to 80 l.

My recommendation for  MEN long-distance hiking backpack:

Osprey Atmos AG 50 Men’s Backpacking Backpack

My recommendation for  WOMEN long-distance hiking backpack:

Osprey Aura AG 50 Women’s Backpacking Backpack

Sleeping bag

The choice is not always easy and will depend especially on the climate and altitude of your trek but also on how much you are sensitive to cold.

The key points to make the right choice :

• Comfort temperature: focus on the comfort temperature indicated on the sleeping bag (not the limit or extreme temperature!).

The general idea is as follows:

• Trekking in cold weather: comfort temperature =< to 32°F (0°C);
• Trekking
in a temperate climate: comfort temperature of 50°F (10°C);
• Trekking in a
warm climate: comfort temperature >= to 68°F (20°C);
• Trekking in the
plain in spring: comfort temperature to 50°F (+10°C), and a lower limit temperature of 43°F (+6°C) will be sufficient.
• The weight: the lighter the better, but the higher the price.
• The filling: down or synthetic? Down feather sleeping bags are more insulating, often more compact and lighter but also more expensive.

Their disadvantage: they are not water-resistant and lose their thermal capacity with too much humidity.

Synthetic bags are more affordable, have a faster drying time but a slightly shorter lifespan.

• Compressed volume: the more compact the sleeping bag, the less space it will take up in your backpack, a not insignificant asset but one that comes at a price.
• The shape: mummy or rectangular sleeping bag?
• The rectangular sleeping bag/blanket: ideal for camping. Not recommended for a long hike.
• The mummy sleeping bag: the ideal choice for thermal optimization. Ideal in bivouac.

Additional resource : >> How to Choose the Best Backpacking Sleeping Bag – 12 Important Tips to Make it Easy

My recommendation for MEN ultralight sleeping bag:

My recommendation for WOMEN ultralight sleeping bag:

A  liner prevents the sleeping bag from getting dirty on the inside and provides extra warmth.

For hikers who sleep in refuges, it is strongly recommended or even mandatory to have one for the dorms.

My recommendation for a backpacking sleeping bag liner:

Cocoon MummyLiner – Coolmax

For bivouacs, in most cases, a three-season tent will do the trick but will not be enough in cases of storms, heavy snow, extreme cold, etc.

Choose the number of persons according to your preferences and the number of people you will be.

It can sometimes be useful to provide an extra place to put the backpack sheltered.

Think lightness and ease to setup.

Additional resource : >> How to Choose the Best Backpacking Tent for Your Next Hike?

My recommendation for an ultralight backpacking tent:

Big Agnes Copper Spur HV UL

Sleeping pad

Indispensable to insulate you from the ground in camp and to avoid getting cold (even in hot weather because the heat of your body is transferred to the ground).

A backpacking pad must bring you comfort and thermal insulation.

What you will have to take into account in your choice:

• space taken in your backpack,
• type of material,
• inflatable or not,
• and R-Value.

This R-Value corresponds to the measurement of the thermal resistance of the mattress.

The higher it is, the better the thermal insulation.

The values vary between 2-3 and 8 or more.

A good 3 seasons hiking pad will be around 2-3.

Additional resource : >> Backpacking Sleeping Pads: Our Advice on How to Buy

My recommendation for an ultralight backpacking sleeping pad:

Last update on 2024-06-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Eating well is important when hiking and what better way to regain strength than a hot meal!

You have 3 types of stoves: gas, wood, fuel, or alcohol.

• Gas stove: the most common among hikers.

Composed of a disposable gas canister that you screw or clip onto a burner.

ADVANTAGE :

• Light and compact;
• Easy to use;
• Performance and heating speed;
• Precise flame intensity adjustment.

DISADVANTAGES :

• Bulky canisters (and to be carried around even when empty until you can throw them away in the recyclable garbage can ) ;
• Gas canisters are prohibited in aircraft (as hand carried AND luggage compartment) ;
• Difficult to figure out the remaining gas ;
• The gas canisters are disposable so not really environmentally friendly… (don’t throw them away in nature !) ;
• Difficult sometimes to find the right canister abroad ;
• Loss of efficiency in very cold weather.

My recommendation for an ultralight backpacking gas stove:

• Wood stove: ecological, economical, and light.

You just need small wood that you can easily find in a wooded area.

In addition, it is possible to use firelighters.

• Ecological! No disposable empty canister, only natural and free fuel that leaves no trace after complete combustion;
• No need to carry fuel in the bag or to provide a reserve for long treks;
• Very efficient;
• Some models are extremely small and light;
• Does not cost anything in fuel.
• Requires trekking in a wooded area;
• Requires a bit of lighting technique if the wood is wet;
• Blackens the cooking pot but it is easily washable afterward.

My recommendation for an ultralight backpacking wood stove:

• Multi-fuel stove : little known to the general public, used mainly in expeditions by trekkers and mountaineers.

Operates with liquid fuel (unleaded gasoline, white gasoline, diesel, kerosene, alcohol) pressurized and sprayed.

• Fuel found everywhere in the world;
• Inexpensive to use compared to gas;
• Very good performance even at low temperatures;
• Easy to predict the quantities of fuel needed.
• Stove more expensive to purchase;
• More complex to use than other systems;
• Requires regular maintenance.

Personally, I have a strong preference for wood stoves for their ecological aspect and how they can be very compact and lightweight.

Always be careful when using a stove in natural areas. Inattention, a wind blow, and an accident/fire can happen quickly.

Additional resource : >> Best Backpacking Stoves of 2020 – Buying Guide

My recommendation for an ultralight backpacking multi-fuel stove:

Your choice will depend on the number of people in your group and the type of food you plan to cook.

The simplest and most common trekking food is freeze-dried meals that you simply cook in a pot of hot water.

To prepare more advanced meals, a pan will certainly be convenient but adds weight and volume.

It’s up to you.

My recommendation for ultralight backpacking cookware:

TOAKS Titanium 1100ml Pot with Pan

Water filtration system or purifying tablets

Even if the water source may come from high mountains or appears clear and pure, it is always preferable to purify it to make it completely safe and to avoid worries that could make your trek unbearable.

For this, you have the choice between :

• Filter flasks and bottles that remove protozoa, bacteria, viruses, and some heavy metals (recommended: Water-to-Go; Lifestraw and Katadyn );
• Hand pump water filter that can be attached to a bottle or a water bag (recommended: Katadyn Vario )
• A filter straw that works on the same principle as a water bottle except that you drink directly from the water source (recommended: Lifestraw ) ;
• A water purifier such as Steripen from Katadyn ; 

• Purifying tablets to put in your water bottle like Katadyn Micropur.

Additional resource : >> How to Choose a Backpacking Water Filter & Purifier System (Ultimate Guide)

My recommendation for ultralight backpacking water filtration system:

Sawyer Products Squeeze Water Filtration System

My recommendation for ultralight backpacking chemical water treatment:

Potable Aqua Chlorine Dioxide Water Purification Tablets

Navigation gear and maps

Navigation is a point not to be ignored if you don’t want to get lost on the trails.

At the very least, you will need a detailed topographical map of the area where you are going and a compass.

For popular treks, especially in the USA and Europe, you can also find Topographic Map Guides, in paper book format, ultra-detailed that are always useful to have to better prepare your trail ( Appalachian Trail ).

To avoid inconvenience in case of rain, you can protect your map in a waterproof zippered bag like this one for example .

You also have more advanced accessories such as GPS or altimeters, but you still need to be able to manage with a map in case your electronics fail due to battery or satellite problems.

Additional resource : >> Best Handheld Hiking GPS of 2020 [Ultimate Buying Guide]

My recommendation for hiking GPS:

It will be incredibly useful at night at your camps and even in a refuge. Remember to bring spare batteries just in case. I personally use the Petzl and Black Diamond.

My recommendation for backpacking headlamp:

And to complete this list of trekking basics here is a complementary list of highly recommended equipment:

• Trekking poles (to relieve your knees on the way down and to help you on the way up)
• Swiss Army Knife
• Hydration bladder with tube (very practical to drink more regularly)
• Rain protection for your backpack (if not included)
• Toiletry bag
• Microfiber towel
• Protective plastic bags (freezer type with zipper)
• Survival blanket
• Spare laces
• Thread and needle
• An electrical outlet adapter (if abroad)

Choosing the right hiking clothing and footwear

Here I will talk about the choice of clothes to take with you and hiking shoes.

As above with the gear, I will give you advice but there is no rule set in stone.

Once again, the choice will depend on your preferences, your physical characteristics, and the hike you are going to do.

Taking your time in your choices to select the right clothing for your trek will allow you to be ready to face any weather. The trail will be all the more pleasant.

3 selection criteria :

• Functionality
• Easy to wear.

Learn and understand the three-layer system :

• Layer n°1 , the transfer layer ;
• Layer n°2 , the heating layer ;
• Layer n°3 , the protective layer.

Let’s discover together the essentials to wear on the trails.

Basic trekking clothing

Boots and shoes.

Hiking boots and shoes must offer comfort, good support, and be adapted to the terrain.

For a walk or a short hike on slightly uneven terrain with no weight on your back, low or mid-cut hiking shoes that are flexible and light will be fine.

For trekking or hiking in the mountains, it will be recommended adapted boots, high-cut for good support of the foot, with a sole with good grip but still flexible and with protection in front (a stone guard).

Lightweight, with low-cut shoes suitable for mountain, will attract those who like fast and active hiking.

For the approach walking, you will need specific shoes with rubber soles that will grip the rocks. But you may not be there yet, are you?

Additional resource : >> 10 Best Hiking Boots and Shoes of 2020 – Men and Women Models

My recommendation for  MEN Hiking boots:

Salomon Men’s Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking

My recommendation for  WOMEN Hiking boots:

Salomon Women’s Quest 4d 3 GTX Backpacking

Socks are going to be as important as shoes and choosing the right socks can save you a lot of trouble.

Take into account the outside temperature of where you are going to hike and the intensity of the planned trail (high intensity for a long hike with a loaded backpack on your back and steep incline).

Favor socks with reinforcements on the heel and toes, with good support so they don’t slip and in which you feel comfortable.

Merino wool socks will bring warmth but are not very breathable. This wool is antibacterial, which is a plus to limit odors on long hikes.

Socks containing polyester, acrylic, or synthetic fibers such as nylon will provide breathability and wick away perspiration.

For a good compromise between warmth and breathability, you can find socks combining wool and synthetic fibers.

Avoid cotton socks, which absorb moisture and do not wick it away.

My recommendation for  MEN Hiking Socks:

Darn Tough Boot Cushion Sock – Men’s

My recommendation for  WOMEN Hiking Socks:

Darn Tough Boot Cushion Sock – Women’s

Hiking pants or shorts

Many choices are possible, pants, shorts, unzippable pants to become shorts, leggings.

Some hikers are more comfortable in one type than the other and vice versa.

In the summer on open terrain, a short is a very good option or leggings that are comfortable, ventilate well and protect more from the sun.

In cooler weather, the pants will be your friend.

And for days that are cool at the beginning and end of the day and hot in the middle, the zip-off convertible pants will be your best ally.

The ideal pants for trekking should be light, made of a quick-drying fabric (forget jeans!) and have some elasticity for more freedom of movement.

In rainy weather, it can be interesting to have waterproof rain pants. It will be moreover windproof .

My recommendation for  MEN Hiking Pants:

Outdoor Research Men’s Ferrosi Pants

My recommendation for  WOMEN Hiking Pants:

The North Face Women’s Aphrodite 2.0 Pant

Hiking Shirt

There are many options. Lightweight t-shirt, thermal t-shirt, hiking shirt, short or long sleeves. There is no right or wrong choice, it depends on you and the climate.

Avoid cotton again. Merino wool will be your best choice for long hikes, especially since bad smells don’t settle as quickly as with synthetics.

Synthetics are still interesting because they are often cheaper, moisture-wicking, and dry quickly.

My recommendation for  MEN Hiking Shirt:

Icebreaker Merino Men’s Tech Lite

My recommendation for  WOMEN Hiking Shirt:

Outdoor Research Women’s Ignitor S/S Tee

We don’t think about it but it is also important to choose your underwear well.

In fact, the ones you are used to wearing every day will not necessarily be pleasant and suitable for a long hike.

For panties and briefs, avoid cotton which retains moisture and is slow to dry. Prefers synthetic materials or wool.

For women, a sports bra is recommended to be more comfortable in movement and for quicker drying in general.

My recommendation for  MEN Hiking Underwear:

Smartwool Men’s Merino 150 Boxer Brief

My recommendation for  WOMEN Hiking Underwear:

ExOfficio Women’s Give-n-go Sport Mesh Bikini Brief

The 3-layer system:

There is no need to look like the Michelin Tire Man to keep warm on a hike, 3 adapted layers are enough.

The 3-layer principle is a technique used by a large number of outdoor enthusiasts.

It is a method that is easy to understand and to adopt, which is essential to dress optimally and adapt to all weather conditions.

The purpose of the 3-layer system is to use a minimum of clothing for maximum efficiency.

What we are looking for is to be at a comfortable temperature in all circumstances (during the effort and during breaks).

• The first layer, the base or transfer layer

This layer is the one against your skin, it’s the basic t-shirt and underwear. It allows you to evacuate perspiration and stay dry.

Here you need a thermal base, which is also called a technical t-shirt, which preferably fits your body.

Especially not in cotton again! You’re starting to understand that you should avoid this material altogether when hiking, right?

• The second layer, the warmth or insulating layer

This layer is the insulating layer that should keep you warm.

It must also allow perspiration to evacuate to the outside.

A fleece is good as a second layer for example. Light in weight, fast-drying, and available for different levels of warmth desired.

It can also be a softshell jacket.

• The third layer, the protective layer

This last layer is there to protect you from external elements (wind, rain, snow, etc.).

It must allow moisture to escape from the body without letting outside moisture through. It is often a jacket or a raincoat.

My recommendation for  MEN Hiking Jacket:

Arc’teryx Gamma LT Hoody Men’s

My recommendation for  WOMEN Hiking Jacket:

Outdoor Research Women’s Ferrosi Hooded Jacket

With all this, you should be ready for your trek clothingly speaking!

Now that you have a clearer idea of what to take with you on a trek, you’ll need to know how to organize it all in your backpack.

And yes, it is very important to fill your backpack strategically so that you don’t hurt your back and suffer during your trek.

But also to avoid getting unbalanced during the hike and risking falling, sprains, strains, etc.

How to fill your long-distance hiking backpack properly?

To begin, when you pack your backpack, spread out all your stuff in front of you on your bed, the ground, a table, it doesn’t matter but spread it all out!

This way, you can easily make an inventory of your gear and be sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

The lightness:

The lighter your packed backpack is, the better you will feel on the trails. Trust me!

Forget all the superfluous, the “just in case” stuff, and stick to what you really need!

Balancing – 6 steps to fill your backpack and balance it properly

The center of gravity of your bag should always be at the level of your back.

To do this, put the heaviest items towards the middle of your back and closest to your body. This way your pelvis will support the load and your backpack will not pull backward.

Organize yourself to keep the things you use most often within reach in your backpack pockets for example.

• The top pocket of the backpack :

Put the first necessities such as a first aid kit, knife, or your fragile objects in it.

You can also put your rain gear in it, quickly accessible in case of need.

• At the bottom of the backpack :

Put light items such as a sleeping bag, a jacket, etc. in the bottom of the bag.

• Inside, above the bottom of the backpack and along the back :

Put the heaviest elements of your hiking gear (tent, food, stove, cooking gear…).

For the tent, the ideal is to separate the different elements to better distribute them in your bag. Or if you will be using a two-person tent, you can split the weight by sharing different parts with your hiking buddy.

If you use a hydration bladder, you will slide it along the back. Most hiking backpacks often have a special pocket provided.

• The upper part of the backpack :

You can put your clothes on top of the heavy elements.

The trick is to use storage pockets like these or mesh bags like these that allow you to keep everything neat and tidy in your bag.

It’s the best and it adds almost no weight!

Put your rain gear on top of all that if there is no room in the top pocket.

• Outside side pockets :

Your essential accessories for the day (energy bars, snacks, topo map, sun cream, sunglasses…). Your water bottle(s) can stand upright on the sides.

Balance the weight so that it is always well distributed.

Under the backpack or on top of it (depending on the backpack) :

You can hang your hiking pad under your backpack with straps or drawstrings provided.

You can also consider hanging your tent this way to save space in the backpack.

Once your backpack is full, remember to set it up properly on your back.

Adjust the shoulder straps, the stabilizer straps (or load-lifting straps), the waist belt.

Your pack should fit your hips and back for optimal comfort.

If you are hiking with other people, the best thing to do is to divide the equipment so that everyone carries about the same weight.

You are now ready for your hike!

Hey no, wait!

I haven’t yet talked about food and hydration management during a trek.

That’s the next subject.

So far, we have talked about gear, itinerary, physical preparation, but there is still one important point to be addressed.

The one without which you won’t be able to get very far on your hike.

The one that will comfort you when showing signs of weakness.

The one that will bring you the fuel you need to climb mountains, cross deserts, walk for days.

We are talking about food and water, of course!

And yes, no matter how long and difficult the trek, the weather conditions, the gear, you will need to eat and drink to have enough energy to move forward.

But beware, you are not going to eat the same way you do every day.

For a simple day’s hike, it’s not very complicated. A few energy bars, nuts, and dried fruit, and possibly a light picnic.

For a longer hike, you will have to prepare your meals in more detail so that they are nutritious, nourishing, and tasty (it’s always better!) so that you will always have energy and a cheerful spirit.

And all this while keeping in mind the weight and space constraints for the backpack.

And then again, what could be more comforting at the end of a long day’s hike than a nice hot meal?

Additional resource : >> 5 Golden Rules That Will Teach You How To Pack a Hiking Backpack For Long Trek

Here are the keys to preparing your trekking meals

The sinews of war! Avoid bulky and heavy foods such as cans.

• Nutritional values 


Choose foods with high nutritional value. Avoid those that are too low in energy content because they will not give you anything effective to sustain the effort over time.

• Preservation

Avoid perishable and fragile foods. For the beginning of the trek, it can be done but then favor foods that keep a long time and that are not easily damaged, crushed or rotten in your backpack.

It is better for the spirit to eat tasty meals than bland, tasteless things. And the spirit, it is necessary to pamper it during long treks!

• Easy to prepare

Exhausted after a hard day’s walk, you won’t have the strength to go into a gourmet kitchen.

You won’t have the utensils and space for that either anyway. So stick to simple meals that are easy to cook.

• Anticipation and preparation before departure 


Depending on your trek, you should check if you have any refreshment points during the trek or not (crossing villages with mini-markets, bakeries, restaurants or shelters offering meals or refreshments, or common break points found in popular thru-hike trails). This will allow you to plan the exact amount of food you need to bring in your backpack from the start.

Additional resource : >> What to Eat When Hiking? 4 Rules for Backpacking Food

Types of packaging:

• Freeze-dried dishes

These are dishes that have already been cooked and cold-dried. You only need to rehydrate and reheat them to eat them.

These are ideal when you need a lot of food stock for your trek. It’s light, it takes up very little space and you have a multitude of dishes and flavors.

The disadvantages are that it is a lot of waste and the price goes up quickly per meal.

Dried fruits and vegetables, oilseeds, seeds (squash, sunflower, sesame), cereals and legumes (lentils, coral lentils, quinoa, rice, semolina, polenta, oat flakes, etc.). Well-seasoned, they are convenient for transportation and are lightweight. You can prepare meal portions in zip-lock freezer bags.

• Dehydrated foods

Dehydrated instant soups, for example, are convenient for having a hot dish/drink. The disadvantage of dehydrated products is that they lose flavor and nutritional quality.

Some suggestions for Backpacking Freeze-Dried Food:

Mountain House Chicken Teriyaki with Rice

Next Mile Meals – 6 Variety Pack

Outdoor Herbivore Backpacking Food Combo

Final thoughts:

By now, you should have all the information to be ready for your first long-distance hike.

If this is not the case, leave a message below to explain what is still blocking you.

But, as we all know, no matter how well you prepare your backpack, gear, food, clothing, etc., once on the trails, things don’t always go as planned.

Bad weather is coming down on you: heavy rain, a destabilizing wind, thick fog falling, unexpected snow, etc.

A hazard on a path that becomes an issue to solve (snow, a fallen tree, an overflowing stream, etc.).

Small indigestion during the trek.

A painful blister that appears on your foot.

So many situations that you couldn’t anticipate and that can quickly turn your trek into a nightmare.

Or at least that can break your spirit and drive you in dangerous situations if poorly controlled.

That’s why I wanted to finish this article by giving you some extra advice to live your trek well and be able to manage an unexpected situation.

How to live your trek well and manage an unexpected situation?

Notify a trusted person of your trek.

It is important to tell someone you know about your trek by indicating the precise itinerary of your trail, the dates and times you plan to walk, the stages, how many you will be.

In case of an accident, the rescue team will more easily know where to look and respond quickly.

Prepare a first aid kit

To
alleviate health and physical issues, prepare your first aid kit well in advance.

Provide dressings of all sizes for blisters and other sores.

Bandages, a small pair of scissors, a few medications for stomach aches, headaches, fever, that you have already used, a survival blanket, etc.

Check your itinerary and the weather the night before

To avoid the unexpected, check each night the route that will be in front of you the next day and also the weather if you can.

Don’t venture out on the trails if the weather is very bad!

Adaptation and safety

If you encounter an obstacle on the way, adapt yourself 
but above all don’t put yourself in unnecessary danger. Sometimes it is better to turn around and find another way than to risk an accident.

Allow yourself a few days of margin in your trek to be able to deal with unexpected events that would force you to slow down, take a break, let a storm pass, change a route that would lengthen your time, etc.

Waste 
management

Leaves no traces except for your footsteps on the trails. All of your garbage must go with you to the next city/town or trash bin, all of it without exception. Take a garbage bag with you.

Anticipate the unpredictable

In camps, pitch your tent at a reasonable distance from waterways in case of an unexpected flood (big storm, snowmelt).

And here we are finally at the end of this long-distance hike guide!

I sincerely hope that you have found it helpful for the preparation of your adventure!

I wish you lots of great adventures and fulfillment!

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About Lara Sein

My name is Lara and I grew up in a mountain environment. I'm an avid rock climber, and my main activities are mountain guiding and rafting (I just got my rafting guide license!). Along all these years I've been using countless gear equipment and apparels that gave me the opportunity to enjoy the best of them for all my outdoor activities.

April 11, 2021 at 3:36 am

Hiking is not easy and for learning it, we need some practice. You shared very amazing tips to do effective hiking in long distance. I really love this amazing guide. Thank you for sharing it.

April 11, 2021 at 5:42 am

Yes indeed. Hiking takes some preparation. I’m glad you like this guide.

May 16, 2021 at 7:12 am

Your hiking guide sounds amazing. Hiking is not as easy as learning all of a sudden. One has to become accustomed through sufficient knowledge and gradual practice. Last time I went hiking I had a lot of difficulties. I was doing research on various topics of hiking and this guide of yours come true. After reading this hiking guide, I realized that due to some misconceptions about my hiking and not knowing some things, I would often face various problems while hiking. Thanks for sharing with us the beautiful things about hiking.

May 16, 2021 at 8:25 am

Thank you Mahir, I’m glad that this guide was helpful to you.

July 17, 2021 at 5:56 pm

This is truly an awesome blog mentioning the benefits of hiking guide. Exactly I was looking for such nice information on effective hiking in long distance. Thanks for sharing this excellent guide regarding hiking which would be really beneficial for me in future!

July 19, 2021 at 4:57 am

You’re most welcome.

August 3, 2021 at 6:58 pm

I think Hiking is not at easy after all but for learning it, we need some practice. You shared very amazing tips to do effective hiking in long distance. I really love this amazing and very useful guide. Thank you for sharing it.

August 4, 2021 at 4:27 am

I agree, you always learn something new when hiking.

August 30, 2021 at 4:04 am

Just because of your recommendation I choose Salomon Quest Boots and now I feel like my money is not going to waste. Before that, I have some uggs for hiking but that was not for long last. Now I go with your recommendation. I hope it becomes best one for me.

August 30, 2021 at 6:03 am

I’ve never heard of UGG boots for hiking and I checked them out, they really look like military boots. With the Salomon Quest, you will never make the wrong choice. Send me some feedback after you try them.

Stay safe, Lara

September 16, 2021 at 1:07 pm

Awesome guide Lara – goes above and beyond, way way further than the usual.

September 16, 2021 at 1:48 pm

I’m glad you liked it.

October 7, 2021 at 5:06 pm

Such a great information about the long distance hiking guide thanks sharing this article

October 8, 2021 at 4:23 am

Thank you, Tom

October 8, 2021 at 9:39 pm

You always provide wonderful information for travel lovers. I really enjoy this great reading. Thank you for sharing it.

October 9, 2021 at 5:42 am

I’m glad I could help.

October 14, 2021 at 2:27 pm

Thanks sharing this article

October 15, 2021 at 4:47 am

You’re welcome.

October 20, 2021 at 4:18 pm

No doubt, this is so helpful and amazing guide to cover the long distance hiking. I really enjoy this great reading. Thank you for sharing this article.

November 5, 2021 at 5:38 am

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25 Best Long-Distance Hiking Trails Around The World

The world is full of wonderful areas to hike, so much so that it can be overwhelming where to choose for your next long-distance trek. From the volcanic terrain around the Ring of Fire to the peaks of Central Asia and the alpine trails of Europe and North America — how do you know what you should select? There are numerous hiking trails to choose from, so we're helping you narrow down the list. Get ready to pack your bags and lace up your hiking shoes — here are our picks for the top 25 long-distance hikes around the world. 

Kepler Track, New Zealand

One of New Zealand's "Great Walks," this loop trail is just over 32 miles in total and typically takes three to four days to complete, depending on your pace. The Kepler Track is located in Fiordland National Park on the South Island and takes you through thickly forested trails with views of Lake Te Anau and Lake Manapouri. 

Keep in mind the "Great Walks season" lasts from October and April and requires booking huts or campsites in advance. This is considered the most ideal period for trekking conditions, however, it is possible to complete the path in the off-season. Just be prepared for snow, limited sunlight, and potential ice. It's recommended that only experienced hikers attempt this trek outside of the season.

Pacific Crest Trail, U.S.

Made famous by Cheryl Strayed's book and movie starring Reese Witherspoon, the 2,600-mile trek from the Canadian to Mexican border along the U.S. West Coast is not for the faint of heart. Hiking through seven national parks, from SoCal deserts to the peaks of the Pacific Northwest, makes every day an adventure on the PCT!

As the trail traverses high mountains, deserts, and everything in between there isn't an ideal time of the year that's applicable to the entire route. However, in general, the summer and early fall are considered the best, as snow, which often covers the trail in winter, will have mostly melted. Remember to bring plenty of water on the arid stretches. It's recommended to allow about five months to complete the full route and don't be surprised if you meet a few four-legged friends as the trail is equestrian friendly.

El Camino de Santiago, Spain (and France and Portugal)

The Camino is the most famous long-distance walk in Europe with hundreds of thousands descending on it each year. The walk dates back to medieval times when it was a pilgrimage route to the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Contrary to popular belief, the trail is actually a series of paths that stretch as far as France and Portugal, with numerous starting points and lengths. Many of the routes are also considered UNESCO heritage sites in their own right. The most popular is the 480-mile Camino Frances (also called the French Way), but you can choose shorter or longer options.

Walkers who walk at least 60 miles of a route will receive a Pilgrim Passport. You'll receive stamps along the way to go toward earning a Compostela Credential certificate at the end of your journey. The best times of year to hike the Camino are in the spring from April to June and in early fall from September to October. The weather in southern Europe during these months will be pleasant, but not too hot. Due to the popularity, it's best to plan and book accommodation at least a few months before you depart.

Kungsleden, Sweden

In the far north of Swedish Lapland is a 240-mile route from Lake Tärnasjön to Hemavan. The hike's name translates to "The King's Way" as it starts at what was once the king's favorite fishing lake, and it's now one of the most popular trails in the country.

Cobbled together from various ski and footpaths through Sweden 's most breathtaking mountain landscapes, you'll feel like you're on another planet (or perhaps on a visit to Narnia!). Summer is the best season for hikers. From June to mid-September conditions are mostly friendly and cabins along the way are open for weary travelers, with supplies available to buy.

Grand Italia Trail (Sentioro Italia)

Italy is always a favorite destination among travelers, but most opt for train journeys, road trips, or ferry crossings. However, one of the best ways to see the country is by foot. In 1983, the Sentiero Italia Association came up with the idea to put together the ultimate Italian hiking trail, from the islands and boot all the way to the mountainous northern regions. It took a few decades, but now hikers can follow the Sentioro Italia from the Slovenian border and end in Sicily. 

At just under 4,900 miles in length, most hikers choose a section and cover a single region or two. Optimal weather depends on the chosen region. The north and central sections are best hiked in the summer once the snow has melted, while southern portions are most comfortable in spring and autumn.

Continental Divide Trail, U.S.

Another border-to-border trail in the U.S., the Continental Divide starts in Montana and follows the Rocky Mountains all the way to Mexico. The 3,100-mile route takes hikers from the border with Alberta to Idaho's mountains and the deserts of New Mexico. Unlike other long-distance thru-hikes in the U.S., the Continental Divide has a few variations and route options along the way. 

The official trail is the Continental Divide Scenic National Trail — put together by the National Forest Service and follows the actual continental divide. However, on AllTrails and other maps, you'll find alternative routes and detours to follow if you want to cover a certain area or landmark not on the official trail. No matter which option you opt for, allow five to six months complete.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa & Lesotho

Covering 150 miles throughout southern Africa, the Drakensberg is one of the more brief, but difficult hikes on this list. You'll start at the Sentinel Car Park in Royal Natal National Park in South Africa, not far from Lesotho, and ends at Bushman's Neck Border Post across the border. Throughout the trek, you'll summit six mountains; Mont Aux Sources (10,768 feet), Cleft Peak (3,100 feet), Champagne Castle (11,080 feet), Mafadi (11,306 feet), Giant's Castle (10,875 feet) and Thabana Ntlenyana (11,420 feet), which is why it's considered a brutal hike despite the shorter length. 

This hike is not very well signposted, often taking you through sheep fields that will require careful navigation. The spring and fall are when most hikers choose to tackle the path, due to longer daylight hours and friendlier weather conditions. Just remember seasons are reversed in this hemisphere!

Via Alpina (multiple alpine countries)

Eight countries make up this 3,100-mile trek; France, Monaco, Italy, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Germany, Austria, and Slovenia. You'll climb from sea level to 9,850 feet above, all in Europe's iconic Alps. Along the very well-marked path, look for the Via Alpina logo, to lead you to places to stay the night or purchase some food. The trails aren't considered too technical and can easily be completed without a guide by experienced hikers. 

The Via Alpina is best hiked between June and September. However, as this is peak hiking season in Europe, it's recommended to book huts or other accommodations far in advance.

Jordan Trail, Jordan

Opened a few years ago, this is the first long-distance trail in Jordan and a wonderful adventure for hikers! The 420-mile trail takes you from the town of Um Qais in the north to Aqaba in the south along the Dead Sea. Along the way, you'll cross through Jordan's mountains, deserts, and small towns. Additionally, you'll cover the country's highlights by foot, including Petra, the Dana Biosphere Reserve, and the Kerak Castle.

The best time of year depends on the region, as despite its' small size, Jordan's climate and landscape are incredibly diverse. The north is most comfortable during March and April while the south is better tackled in late winter. Most trekkers will need about a month and a half to complete the trail. You can hike the Jordan Trail independently, but many knowledgeable local guides are available to make it a stress-free experience as well.

Transcaucasian Trail, Georgia and Armenia

One of the newer long-distance hiking routes, the Transcaucasian has been cobbled together over the years between Armenia and Georgia. With the trail currently at just under 960 miles long, hikers will pass through amazing alpine vistas, desert canyons, sweeping valleys, and volcanic remains. The first test-hikers hit the trail in 2022 and provided recommendations to improve the experience for those to come.

The Transcaucasian Trail, also called the TCT, made a few improvements and is now inviting the next batch to try out the latest iteration. There's a thru-hiker support program available that can help plan your trip and facilitate shipping supplies to various points along the trail. As this is still a newer trail, it's recommended only for experienced thru-hikers and is best tackled in July and August.

The Enchantments, U.S.

The 18-mile thru-hike in the Washington Cascades might not sound bad at first. That's until you realize that at a minimum, you'll gain over 2,000 feet of elevation. Still, the crystal clear lakes, smooth granite slabs, and towering Evergreen trees make for a setting unlike anywhere else in the state. Please note that overnight camping permits in the Enchantments are a lottery system and if you don't have one you cannot complete the hike over multiple days.

However, there are a few day-hike routes. The shortest option is a 7-mile route to the first lake in the Upper Enchantments, although this requires an elevation gain of 4,400 feet in that short distance. Don't attempt if you aren't a regular hiker, it's not a casual jaunt through the woods. Summer is the best season, although it's also beautiful during the fall larch season. And keep your eyes peeled for the mountain goats that like to frequent this area!

Inca Trail, Peru

This four to five-day hike is on many a trekker's bucket list. You'll start in the mountain city of Cusco before heading into the Andes, where you'll hike 26 miles and gain 2,000 feet of elevation en route to the Lost City of Machu Picchu. Dramatic cliff drop-offs and ancient ruins as well as local alpacas dot this trail. The jungles, cloud forests, and looming peaks await you on this trail.

This trail is only possible to complete with a certified guide, and you'll want to secure one far ahead of time as this is one of the most popular and famous routes in South America, thus they book out quickly because the Peruvian government limits the number of visitors each day to preserve the ancient site. Expect heavy crowds, especially in the peak season from May through September, where you can also expect pleasant temperatures and not too heavy rain.

Appalachian Trail, U.S.

This 2,200-mile trail through the eastern U.S. takes you through some epic scenery. From the mountains of Maine (the most difficult portion of the hike) through New England to the Appalachian mountains and finally ending in the northern part of Georgia. 

You'll pass through 15 states while hiking this trail; Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Georgia. It's recommended to start in spring and to allow five to seven months to hike the full route.

Torres del Paine W Track, Chile

The quintessential Patagonian route, this 45-mile circuit where you'll gain nearly 9,000 feet of elevation typically takes about five days to complete. The W Track is located in Torres Del Paine National Park in Chile. Thus, the seasons are reversed making November through April the best months, as well as the only period where independent treks are allowed. 

Along the way, you'll enjoy views of Gatorade-colored alpine lakes, mountains teeming with glaciers, and sweeping valleys. If you want to hike in winter, you'll need to go with an official guide. Huts are available each night with food provided (for a fee), making it much simpler for hikers coming from abroad.

Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain, Peru

This 44-mile hike in the high Peruvian Andes will take your breath away — sometimes literally due to the high altitude in this part of the world. You'll begin at the bottom of the Vilcanota mountain range and complete a loop, usually lasting between four and six days. 

You'll pass through epic vistas, and breathtaking glaciers, and hopefully spot some wildlife. The pinnacle of course is Rainbow Mountain , a mountain comprised of different colored minerals that give it a colorful appearance. Head to Peru from May through September for the most ideal conditions.

The Long Trail, U.S.

Vermont is known as an outdoor lover's paradise and The Long Trail is the ultimate challenge for hikers in the state. The route is considered the oldest continuous footpath in the U.S. and follows the local peaks for 272 miles from Massachusetts to the Canadian border. The last southern 100 miles are actually a part of the larger Appalachian Trail, which was supposedly inspired by the Vermont path. 

You'll wander through the aptly named Green Mountains along serene streams and ponds and through mud, even in summer. The trail typically takes between two and three weeks to complete, although it has been done in under one. It's best tackled in late summer or early fall (when New England's foliage begins to show) to avoid extreme heat and the worst of the crowds.

Mount Toubkal, Atlas Mountains, Morocco

This just over 37-mile trek in North Africa's highest mountain is open to hikers (as are the huts to sleep in) year-round and is possible to do independently. Even for experienced hikers, it is considered quite the challenge with 12,320 feet of elevation gain. The hike can take you anywhere from two to seven days, with most of the climbing in the first couple. You'll start in the village of Imlil and pass through a few more small villages before getting into the heart of the trek. Then, you're rewarded with views of the rugged landscape and sometimes snowy peaks. 

While you can hike throughout all seasons, April, May, September, and October are considered the best months to tackle it. Guides are available for hire in both Casablanca and Marrakech (two popular ports of entry to Morocco) should you not want to organize logistics on your own.

Great Himalayan Trail, Nepal

The Great Himalayan Trail, or GHT as it's known, is 2,800 miles long and is considered the highest hiking path in the world. The path will take you through eight 26,000-feet-plus peaks, with 3,000 to 5,000 feet of elevation gained on most days. From the east to the west of Nepal, you'll walk amongst the epic Himalayas, through alpine forests, snow-covered passes, and small villages. 

The GHT is also considered one of the most difficult thru-hikes in the world, as it's very remote and many mountain passes can be fraught. This hike requires about five to six months to complete, although most hikers opt to tackle a single section.

The Greater Patagonian Trail, Chile & Argentina

Patagonia is a haven for hikers and the crown jewel of the area is, of course, the Greater Patagonian Trail, which starts just outside Santiago and continues south to the southernmost point on the continent. It's not an official trail, but rather a bunch of path networks put together to create this 1,900-mile route. Due to this, large sections aren't marked or officially established as paths, and you'll often be wandering in the wilderness between designated trails. Because of this, research and a GPS are absolutely necessary ahead of time. 

Even then, you'll likely end up in cow fields or off-limits property at some point and will need to proceed with caution. Allow around four months to complete. Like most hikes in the region, the months between November and March are considered the most optimal.

Ak-Suu Transverse, Kyrgyzstan

This 67-mile hike starts in the small village of Jyrgalan and ends at an old Soviet-era resort in Jeti-Oguz. At over 20,000 feet in elevation gain, it's definitely one of the most challenging hikes in Asia and on this list. You'll pass through expansive green valleys, snow-covered passes, and rocky climbs and be rewarded with views of the surrounding countryside. 

The route consists of seemingly endless vertical climbs and steep ascents, so make sure to prepare in your pre-trek training. The best time of the year to hike Ak-Suu is mid-summer, usually July and August. You'll need around one week to hike this route.

Fansipan Trek, Vietnam

In the hills above Sapa (known for beautiful landscapes and bustling markets) in northern Vietnam, lies this 14-mile hike which takes you up Fansipan, the region's highest peak, and through bamboo forests and lush valleys. You'll begin at the bottom of the mountain and ascend it in the first day or two, depending on your pace. Keep in mind the climb consists of over 10,000 feet of elevation gain, with the most intense section in the second half of the ascent. 

After enjoying an epic view from the top, you'll descend into the verdant valley below. The hike usually takes trekkers between one to three days to complete, and you can do so independently or with a guide.

Lost City, Colombia

South America's other lost city can be found in the Sierra Nevada de Santa Maria in the north of Colombia. The 28-mile route through the jungle will pass by swimming holes and local farms, with campsites to sleep in along the way. Take care, as the forest can be damp, making sections a bit slippery, especially where you'll need to climb quite a few steps. In fact, to reach the end you'll need to climb about 1,200 steps in Colombian heat and humidity. It can also become quite muddy or dusty, depending on the season. In general, though, you can hike year-round, although if you arrive between May and September, be prepared for frequent downpours. Mosquitoes are common trail companions, so bring along bug spray.

You'll end in Ciudad Perdida, formerly called Teyuna or the "lost city," which is actually older than Machu Picchu, although much less remains. The path typically requires four to six days to complete and you must do so through a guided tour as you're passing through villages and ancestral land of the Kogi tribes. They've given permission for groups to hike through, but only with operators, so no tourists should be hiking on their own.

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

One of Nepal's shortest "teahouse" treks (as accommodation along the way is in mountain teahouses) you can hike between 100 and 160 miles (depending on your start point). However, with just over 8,800 feet in elevation gain, it's still a strenuous route no matter the course you take. 

You'll tackle subtropic forests to some of the highest mountains in the world. The hike takes between 10 to 21 days to complete and is best hiked in fall or spring. As with all treks in Nepal as of 2023, you must hire a guide. Additionally, road construction has reportedly degraded the path a bit, but most trekkers still enjoy the route.

Milford Track, New Zealand

Another famous "Great Walk" in New Zealand , the Milford Track is a 33-mile hike in Fiordland National Park on the South Island. You'll hike through the rainforest, enjoy views of gushing waterfalls, pristine lakes, glacier-filled mountains, and across suspension bridges. Just like its neighbor the Kepler Track, Milford is best hiked during the "Great Walks season," between October and April, however experienced trekkers can do so outside this period. 

If you're visiting during the season you'll want to book huts and campsites as soon as possible, at least a few months. No matter when you choose to hike, allow at least four days to hike and go between October and April for the best conditions.

The Great Trail, Canada

Canada is known as a fantastic place for hiking and The Great Trail, or Trans-Canada Trail, is the ultimate long-distance trek for those looking to see the country on foot. Starting in St. John's, Newfoundland, you'll wander the coast and forests of the Atlantic provinces, before heading into Quebec and the flats of the prairies. From there, you'll head into the Rockies, before turning north to the Arctic where you'll truly experience Canadian wilderness. Then, return south into the forests and mountains of British Columbia where you'll end on Vancouver Island. 

At 17,400 miles long, of course, it would be quite difficult to complete in one go, most people complete sections at a time. And since Canada is known for brutal winters, it's best to do so in the summer months or early autumn.

New on Sidetracked:

• Australasia
• The Americas
• Mountains & Caves
• Oceans & Rivers
• Polar & Frozen Lands
• Canoe/Kayak/Boards

Planning A Long Distance Trek

Andrew mazibrada.

There can be no more compelling way to connect with a foreign land than to walk on the soil, sand and rock that comprises its landscape. Nor can there be any better way to meet the local people than to walk in their footsteps and among them, on their own terms, instead of being tied to roads, train-tracks and cityscapes.

We hope this guides both inspires you and gives a sense of what avenues someone preparing for a long distance trek will need to investigate to be safe and to get the most out of their time. As each day passes on a long trek, the likelihood of changes in weather and terrain increase. A longer trek usually involves the potential for days without easy access to civilisation and all the contingent benefits we rely on daily. You will want to consider all of these issues in the planning stages. Selecting your gear takes on additional significance – carry a heavy load and your mileage will necessarily decrease and your body may suffer. And if you do not take enough, you may find yourself inadequately prepared. Have a contingency plan – the prospect of unexpected difficulties increases the longer the trek goes on. Physical and mental fitness also play a pivotal, but often underestimated, role.

Think about taking a notebook and pen to record what happens to you – in later years you will relish the memories. Perhaps have some knowledge of the local language and some cash in the local currency – keep both in your notebook. Take copies of important documents such as your passport, your travel documents, insurance and so on and, again, keep them in your notebook. You may want to be cautious about relying on an electronic device if you are concerned about not being able to charge it.

CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING

• How exactly do you intend to get to the start of your trek and home again once you have finished?
• What passes, licences and related documentation are required for the trek by the country or countries you are traveling in?
• What route do you intend to take and why – what is the purpose of the trek, what do you want to see, why are you going, what topographical features will you have to negotiate and do you have the skills to negotiate them?
• Do you have a safe emergency egress route should things go wrong?
• What do you intend to eat and drink during the trek and how will you have access to it – will you be carrying it, buying/obtaining it en route or a mixture of the two?
• Unless you are very experienced, think about having a route of contact with the outside world during the trek
• Where do you intend to sleep – will you be camping and if so, where and is it legal to camp wild? Do you need to book huts or other accommodation in advance? Is the popularity of a given route seasonal – if so, book well in advance
• What weather, terrain and conditions are likely to be experienced on the trek? Can you deal with ANY GIVEN SITUATION – if not, you may want to reconsider whether it is safe to go.
• What gear do you need to be safe, and what gear do you need to be comfortable and what gear do you need to enjoy your time in country?
• Where will you store your traveling gear – your spare clothes and so on?

Think about taking a notebook and pen to record what happens to you – in later years you will relish the memories. Perhaps have some knowledge of the local language and some cash in the local currency – keep both in your notebook.

If you are undertaking a National Trail, selecting your route will be done for you. If not, be realistic about the terrain and your ability to cope with it. You need to research the terrain, as well as the likely weather, and have planned emergency egress routes.

TRAVEL AND ROUTE SELECTION

Before you can even begin to consider your gear, you might want to look at where you are going, when and how you intend to travel. How do you intend to get to the start of the trail – will public transport suffice or will you need a hire car or taxi? Tourism sites for most countries have national trails listed and details of how to get to and from them. Alternatively, if you intend to stay in a local hotel/hostel/hut near to the trail, ask them – they will almost certainly know and emailing is easy. Google translate is a fantastic tool if the language is difficult and they are unlikely to speak English – you will at least get your message across that way even if your grammar is poor! Or check with airport information – for alpine treks, there will be minibus services from Geneva, for example. Do you intend to travel in your trekking gear (a treat for the passengers on your flight back) or do you intend to leave a kit bag somewhere – if so, where? How do you intend to gain access to it and how often?

If you are undertaking a National Trail, selecting your route will be done for you. If not, you will want to be realistic about the terrain and your ability to cope with it. You will want to research the terrain, as well as the likely weather, and have planned emergency egress routes. Find out what the paths/trails are like and how straightforward on-the-ground navigation is likely to be. You might want to consider taking GPS for longer treks where getting lost is likely to have far-reaching consequences. Most smartphones have GPS these days, or alternatively take a small unit with the maps of your route pre-loaded. Ensure that, if you are going abroad, that your GPS unit’s datum matches that of your local map. Have paper maps even if you have a GPS unit – you must never rely on GPS alone. Know how to use a compass. You’ll want to be to re-charge the GPS unit or carry spare batteries – a useful tips is ensuring your headtorch batteries are the same as your GPS unit batteries. Try working out exactly how long the battery life is for your unit and try to learn to use it before you go.

You might want to research the weather for the last few years in the area you are going for the time of year you are going. If it is in a different country, perhaps seek advice from the local body running the park – they will be more than willing to provide you with advice and assistance.

How to plan a long-distance walk: kit list, navigation, choosing your trail

Here's everything you need to know about planning and executing your first long-distance walk. plus, scroll down for your chance to win a fjällräven pack and scarpa boots.

As 2023 ends and the new year approaches, it’s a great time to start thinking about planning adventures and setting goals. We reckon there’s no better challenge to set yourself than to walk a long-distance trail.

Whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or a first-time long-distance hiker, tackling a big walk is an unforgettable experience. But, it requires a lot of planning. If you're curious about this rewarding challenge, take a look at our guide, in partnership with Trekitt , for how to plan a long-distance hike.

Picking a trail

There are 15 official National Trails in England and Wales, taking in a huge variety of landscapes. National Trails are managed to a high standard and waymarked with distinctive acorn signage.

This ensures they’re generally easier to follow than some other long-distance paths. Ranging from the 79-mile Yorkshire Wolds Way to the mammoth 630-mile South West Coast path, the trails vary in distance, terrain and scenery.

The best place to research these routes is at www.nationaltrail.co.uk . That's the official website of the National Trails. It's an essential resource that allows you to plan daily stages, find campsites and other accommodation, as well as places on the trail to eat and drink and more.

Scotland also has 29 spectacular Great Trails. They are fully waymarked and can be tackled as end-to-end expeditions or in manageable sections. Visit www.scotlandsgreattrails.com for more information.

The Long Distance Walkers Association (LDWA) has a database of more than 1,500 long distance paths across the UK, many of which are ideal for multi-day backpacking trips to suit different abilities. Visit www.ldwa.org.uk .

Good trails for novices include the West Highland Way and the Coast to Coast path . For those wanting to walk a longer National Trail, perhaps consider the Pennine Way or Offa’s Dyke Path. You can even go for the South West Coast Path, though you may need to tackle it in stages.

If you’d rather get off the beaten track and want to really challenge yourself, there’s the rugged Cambrian Way and the epic Cape Wrath Trail. These are arguably the two toughest long-distance walks in Britain.

How to plan your long-distance route

A range of guidebooks are available for the more popular long-distance routes. These generally include useful info like suggested stages, accommodation, and facilities on the route, as well as detailed directions. While you can use these for reference, you’ll most likely want to develop your own trail itinerary.

Consider the distance you want to cover each day, how many days you can take to walk the trail, and where you want to sleep at night – whether you want to wild camp , stay on campsites, book B&Bs or mix it up.

It might help to create a spreadsheet with your proposed stages and accommodation. If you add re-stock points to the spreadsheet, you can figure out how much food you’ll need to carry. This will help to avoid carrying more food than you need, which can be a real game changer when it comes to travelling lighter and enjoying your walk more.

On the most popular trails such as the Pennine Way and West Highland Way, baggage transport services are available.

These companies collect your bags from your campsite or B&B in the morning and drop them off at your evening accommodation. This does mean committing to fixed daily mileages, but if you’re not used to carrying a heavy pack, it can be a good option for easing into long-distance walking.

If you want to tackle the longest and most demanding trails in the UK, you might want to consider having someone send you re-supply boxes. This means you can pick up extra food, toiletries, maps and other trail essentials.

This approach requires an extra element of organisation in terms of working out where you can get these care packages sent to, but many bunkhouses, B&Bs and campsites are used to this – just check in advance if it’s okay to get a package sent there.

How do I navigate on a long-distance walk?

While we generally advocate taking a paper map and compass on any hike, in reality this can be challenging on long-distance trails, as it would mean carrying multiple maps, which often just isn’t feasible. Of course, if you are posting resupply boxes ahead, you can include a map for your next stage.

But digital mapping has made long-distance navigation much easier. You can plot or download multiple GPS tracks for each daily stage of an entire trail to a GPS unit or a smartphone with a mapping app. In more remote parts of the UK, it is sensible to have a backup on another device, plus the ability to download offline maps.

What to take on a long-distance hike

This largely depends on whether you are camping or staying in B&Bs. In turn, this will dictate the size of rucksack you’ll need. However, campers will need a light and packable shelter such as a backpacking tent or a bivvy, plus a sleeping mat and sleeping bag suitable for the season you’re planning to hike in. Most backpackers also carry a stove and cook set, so you can make a brew and a hot meal.

You’ll also need either a map and compass, a GPS device or smartphone and a power bank and charging cable. A reliable head torch is a must. Also pack a first aid kit including painkillers, plasters, blister plasters and antiseptic wipes. A tick removal tool is a good idea too.

Then there’s food and water. You can carry the latter in bottles , soft-sided flasks, or a hydration bladder. A water filter is always handy on a long-distance walk, as it gives you ready access to clean, safe drinking water.

Deciding which clothes to wear and pack is down to personal preference, but employing a classic layering system works well. A hat and gloves are sensible additions for wild camping in the hills, even in summer, as is an insulated jacket and warm spare socks.

You’d be mad not to take a waterproof jacket and overtrousers in the UK. As for spare underwear – we’ll leave that up to you!

About Trekitt

Established in Abergavenny at the foot of the Black Mountains in 1986, Trekitt started life as a small family-owned business and is now one of the UK’s leading outdoor retailers. As well as having a website packed with all the latest hiking products, the hugely passionate Trekitt team also offers in-person sessions at its Hereford-based Service Centre, covering everything from boot and rucksack fitting to advice on how to pitch your tent. To find out more, visit the company website at  trekitt.co.uk

WIN a Fjällräven pack and Scarpa boots

We’ve teamed up with Trekitt to give away a prize bundle of a Fjällräven Abisko 35 pack (worth £200) and Scarpa Rush Trk LT GTX boots (worth £190) to two lucky winners. Fill in the form below to enter:

The prize draw opens on 23.11.23 at 9am and closes at 23:59pm on 23.12.23 any entries submitted after this time will not be valid or counted.

This competition is open to UK residents aged 18 and over.

There are 2 prizes consisting of x1 Fjallraven Abisko Hike 35 Stone Grey Pack & x1 Scarpa Rush TRK LT GTX.

2 winners will be picked randomly from all valid correctly answered entries who have answered during the prize date. The winner will be contacted shortly after the closing date and notified by email and have 7 days to respond before an alternative winner is chosen.

Only one entry per person will be counted.

Prizes will only be delivered to an address within the UK. Should a prize winner's contact details change, it is their responsibility to notify us, or the contact person(s) detailed in the Competition’s Specific Terms.

No purchase is necessary. To enter for free visit How to plan your next long-distance walk | LFTO

Full terms and conditions can be found at www.bauerlegal.co.uk/competition-terms.html

The prize is provided by Trekitt. We are not responsible for any aspect of the prize, including unsatisfactory quality or the entirety of the prize due to their own circumstances or restrictions. Prizes are non-transferable, non-refundable and no cash alternative will be offered.

Our employees (and their family members) or employees of any company involved in the Competition, including any Prize Provider, are not permitted to enter. H Bauer Publishing is the promoter of this Competition, see: http://www.bauerlegal.co.uk/ for details of our registered office and company number.

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8 Best Treks in Italy

Quick navigation.

• Grand Italian Trail
• Cinque Terre
• Tratturo Magno
• Via degli Dei (Path of Gods)
• St Francis Way
• Tre Cime di Lavaredo
• The Mining Trail of Saint Barbara

Adventure Tours in Italy

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Most travellers and vacationers flock to Italy for its notorious big cities: Florence, Rome, and Venice, where hustling, bustling culture meets crumbling, ancient history. And don’t even get us started on the cuisine and wine! But what if we told you you could explore more remote areas of Italy, meandered by fewer crowds than the popular tourist cities? Don’t get us wrong; you’ll still pass through some famed metropolises and dabble in Italy’s rich, historical culture! Trekking through Italy is an ideal way to experience all the significant aspects of the country at a slower pace.

Trekking in Italy

Italy boasts a diverse range of treks. Want remote and rugged? Give the Alta Via Trek or hut-to-hut adventure in the Dolomites a try. Dial it back with a breezy seaside trek in Cinque Terre. You can complete this route in half a day, but why not spend a few days soaking up the five villages overlooking the sea? Some treks in Italy might keep you on foot for almost a year—the Grand Italian Trail, for example—while other routes only have you hiking for a few days.

Which type of adventure fits your trekking style? Take a look at eight of the best treks in Italy below.

1. Grand Italian Trail

Let's begin our list of Italy's eight best long-distance treks with a grandiose adventure: the Grand Italian Trail. This bucket-list-worthy trek travels more than 6,000km through Italy, bypassing some extraordinary imagery en route. Travel through the ever-imposing Dolomites and Gran Paradiso National Park. On top of that, you'll discover Mount Etna, the most active and tallest volcano in Europe. Then, enjoy the less-crowded, natural beauty flanking Abruzzo. Expect a beautiful fusion of Italian culture and spectacular scenery as you trek through the country! Check out all the different walking tours in Italy , and spend your next holiday exploring Italy on foot.

Location: Lazzaretto - Chiesa del Buon Cammino Distance: 6,166.0 km Time: Around 350 days When to do: Between May and October

2. Cinque Terre

Regarding distance travelled, Cinque Terre opposes the Grand Italian Trail, as it only takes a few hours to hike from village to village. 

Why not spend as much time as possible soaking up the five villages speckled by the seaside? If you want to explore the entire route in one day, you can always spend more time meandering the 120km trail network spanning the area.

Explore tours so you can explore Cinque Terre on your next vacation. You can marvel at the views and food on this self-guided Cinque Terre trek , or find other Cinque Terre walking tours in Northern Italy .

Location: Riomaggiore to ​​Monterosso Distance: 11.0 km , but it’s normal to stretch it over a few days When to do: March to June or September to October

3. Tratturo Magno

Travel through the Gran Sasso mountains, where low-hanging mist can't help but highlight these mountains' true height and grandeur. After marvelling at the never-ending natural wonders speckling central Italy, head to the farmland in Tavoliere delle Puglie. This long-distance trek always impresses, thanks to the history and uninterrupted beauty along the path. The Gran Sasso is a classic destination for an Italian walking vacation, combining great scenery, history, and wonderful food. Make your own memories and find an Italian Walking Tour for your next holiday.

Location: L’Aquila to Foggia Distance: 244.0 km Time: 10 days When to do: May to October

4. Via degli Dei (Path of Gods)

Walk through the shadows of ancient history on the iconic Via degli Dei (Path of Gods). Some sections hark back to 187 BC! Hikers can expect a natural blend of Italian culture—such as through Bologna, punctuated with the final destination, Florence—and history. Overall, the Via degli Dei ranks as a moderately challenging adventure, making it accessible to most, but worth training and preparing for! The Via Degli Dei walking tour is a classic vacation option. Explore other walking tours in Tuscany , or these trekking tours in Northern Italy .

Location: Bologna to Florence Distance: 125.0 km Time: 5 days When to do: April to June or September to November

5. St Francis Way

Want to traverse Italy's "green heart"? The St Francis Way awaits! While the trail is 520km, you can also look into completing one of the four stages instead. For example, you can stick with stage one and go from Florence to Sansepolcro—travelling 138km instead of 520km. The first stage captures the wonder of Italy's lush, rolling countryside. The following two sections take you deeper into the country, introducing walkers to ancient hilltop villages and vineyards. Dip back into a more hustling, bustling civilization during the final stage, ultimately leading you to one of the most significant cities in the world: Rome. Want to do this walk, one great option is the St. Francis tour from Florence to Verna , that takes you through the beautiful Tuscan countryside as you walk. You can find more St. Francis walking tours in Southern Italy

Location: Florence to Rome Distance: 520.0 km Time: 28+ days When to do: May to October

6. Alta Via 1

The dramatic scenery sweeping the Dolomites possesses the power to lure and inspire any avid hiker. You won't grow bored meandering by alpine lakes, layers of peaks, and grassy valleys hugged by jagged slopes. And one of the best ways to soak in the mesmerizing highlights is to trek the challenging Alta Via 1. Newbie trekkers will also enjoy this route, thanks to the limited technicalities underfoot. The trail is also well-marked! Join an Alta Via Trekking Tour on your next vacation, or find other great walking tours in the Dolomites .

Location: Lago di Braies to La Pissa Bus Stop (Val Cordevole) Distance: 120.0 km Time: 8-10 days When to do: June 15 to late September

7. Via Francigena

The stunning Via Francigena pilgrimage actually goes from Canterbury to Rome, stretching 2,000km.  While the complete route is spectacular, many feel the final stretch, from Lucca (near Florence) to Rome is the real highlight.  This 420 km stretch takes 2 to 3 weeks depending on your speed, and combines the best of Italy. You start in Florence, and then train to Lucca, where you start walking, savouring the best of Tuscany and Lazio, before ending up in Rome.

Want to be a pilgrim, check out this partial Via Francigena Tour from Lucca to Siena . You can also find more Via Francigena walking tours in Tuscany .

Location: Lucca to Rome Distance: 420.0 km Time: 14-21 days When to do: March to November

8. The Mining Trail of Saint Barbara

Revel in over eight thousand years of stories spanning this path. Miners travelled this trail way back in the day, and now it has been revamped! Walk past old mine towns and cultural delights tucked by natural wonders along this impactful long-distance trek.

Don't expect to walk through dry conditions for the entire journey! You'll also pass by gorgeous water beauties, such as the 5 Faraglioni and the Sugar Loaf and the Waterfalls of Sa Spendula.

Find other great tours in Sardinia , and if you are interested in similar tours, these wonderful walking tours in Sicily would make a fine walking holiday.

Location: Iglesias, Italy Distance: 498.7 km Time: Around 30 days When to do: Year-round, but it might be best to avoid during the hot summer months

Have any of the above long-distance treks in Italy piqued your interest? If you aren’t sure where to start the planning process, why not leave it to the professionals? From the dramatic terrain of the Dolomites to the seaside landscapes of Sicily and everything in between, we have plenty of amazing adventure tours available throughout the whole of Italy. Get ready to discover your next Italian adventure !

Looking to explore some of the World’s best treks outside of Italy? Check out the rest of the articles in our Best Treks series, where we highlight all of the best treks around the world to help you plan your upcoming long-distance adventures!

• 8 Best Multi Day Hikes in Iceland
• 10 Best Multi Day Hikes in Canada
• 10 Best Long Distance Hikes in the United States
• 10 Greatest Multi Day Hikes in Europe
• Africa's Best Treks
• 10 Best Long Distance Walks in the UK
• 10 Amazing Treks in Asia
• Australia’s Greatest Thru-Hikes
• 10 Spectacular Long Distance Hikes in New Zealand
• 10 Best Pilgrimage Routes
• 10 Best Treks in the Mediterranean

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A List of Long-Distance Trails in the US

I tching for a long hike but don’t know which trail to pick? Yeah, we’ve been there too. The US is brimming with long-distance trails, but when it comes time to actually choose one … finding that Goldilocks trail that’s the perfect length, is in-season, and isn’t all the way on the other side of the dang country can be challenging, to say the least.

This resource exists to make planning your next trip easier. You can sort the following list of trails by length, region, or season to find hikes that work for you, then click through to learn more about each trail. We’re not claiming that this is an exhaustive list of every trail or route that’s ever existed in the US — it’s not. But it’s an ever growing resource, so if you’re not seeing a trail on the list that you’d like to learn more about, drop us a line.

We hope this page helps you plan your next adventure, dear reader. Smooch. If there are any trails that you’d like to see added to this list, drop us a line in the comments.

American Discovery Trail

• Length: 6800 mi | 10943 km
• States: DE, D.C., MD, WV, OH, IN, IL, IA, NE, KY, MO, KS, CO, UT, NV, CA
• Hiking season: Spring, Summer, Fall
• Trail Organization: American Discovery Trail Society

The American Discovery Trail (ADT) crosses the country from east to west and tops our list of insanely long trails in the US at 6,800 miles, nearly the length of the entire Triple Crown combined. Note that the middle section of the ADT splits into a northern and southern route. Hardcore thru-hikers like Briana DeSanctis have walked both alternates, but you could also pick just one and walk the ADT end to end in about 4,800 miles.

NEXT –

• Interviews with Successful Thru-Hikers of the American Discovery Trail
• Backpacker Radio #206: Briana DeSanctis on Thru-Hiking the American Discovery Trail

Return to top.

Appalachian High Route

US long-distance trails: The Appalachian High Route. Katie Houston photo

• Length: 330 mi | 531 km
• States: NC, TN
• Trail Organization:

Not to be confused with the AT, the Appalachian High Route was designed by Jennifer Pharr Davis as a loop hike that provides access to nearly all of the 6000-foot-plus peaks east of the Mississippi. Combining sections of the AT, Mountains-to-Sea Trail, and Black Mountains Crest Trail (plus a few miles on forest roads), the AHR is a challenging route.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Appalachian High Route

Appalachian Trail

US long-distance trails: The Appalachian Trail

• Length: 2198 mi | 3537 km
• States: GA, NC, TN, VA, WV, MD, PA, NJ, NY, CT, MA, VT, NH, ME
• Trail Organization: Appalachian Trail Conservancy

Look, we’re not going to beat a dead horse here. The AT is our bread and butter (fun fact, The Trek used to be called AppalachianTrials.org but we had to change it because too many people thought our name was a typo). Rather than rehash the billion reasons the world’s most famous thru-hike is worth your time, here’s a selection of helpful resources to get you started with planning.

READ NEXT –

• The Appalachian Trail Thru-Hike Gear List
• Appalachian Trail 101 Guide
• Appalachian Trail FAQs
• The AT Thru-Hiker Survey
• The Appalachian Trail Thru-Hiker Checklist

Arizona Trail

US long-distance trails: The Arizona Trail. Elaine Che photo

• Length: 825 mi | 1328 km
• Hiking season: Spring, Fall
• Trail Organization: Arizona Trail Association

Traversing breathtaking desert landscapes, the AZT is justifiably popular among thru-hikers. At 825 miles, it’s long enough to feel like a substantial thru-hike without taking over your whole year like a Triple Crown trail would. Best hiked either in the spring or the fall, it’s a perfect shoulder season escape.

• The Ultimate Guide to Resupply and Towns on the Arizona Trail
• The Arizona Trail Gear List
• How To Hike the Arizona Trail

Baker Trail

US long-distance trails: the Baker Trail. Doomsdayer520 photo

• Length: 134 mi | 216 km
• Trail Organization: Rachel Carson Trail Conservancy

The verdant and meandering Baker Trail traverses six counties in western Pennsylvania. It doesn’t see much action, so be aware that some parts of the trail are little-maintained and can get quite overgrown. This adds to the adventure, but do make sure to take precautions against ticks as Lyme disease is relatively common in this neck of the woods.

Bay Area Ridge Trail

US long-distance trails: The Bay Area Ridge Trail. Becky Booroojian photo

• Length: 550 mi | 885 km
• Hiking season: Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
• Trail Organization: Bay Area Ridge Trail Council

Bay Area residents and visitors, rejoice! You have a lovely and scenic long trail that’s hikeable year-round, right in your backyard. When complete, the BART will be around 550 miles long; currently some 400 miles are complete. The trail council will still recognize you as a thru-hiker (or “circumnavigator”) if you complete all sections of the trail that are currently open.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Bay Area Ridge Trail

Basin and Range Trail

US long-distance trails: The Basin and Range Trail. Katie Houston photo

• Length: 1090 mi | 1754 km
• Hiking season: Late Spring, Summer

The Basin and Range Trail is an unofficial route and lacks its own trail association. Hikers must be prepared for bushwhacking and route-finding on this extremely challenging trek. In exchange, you’ll gain access to some of the most beautiful, rarely traveled corners of Nevada. This is not a beginner-friendly hike.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Basin and Range Trail: 1000 Miles of Rugged and Rewarding Nevada Wilderness

Benton Mackaye Trail

US long-distance trails: The Benton Mackaye Trail. Sara Leibold photo

• Length: 288 mi | 463 km
• States: GA, NC, TN
• Trail Organization: Benton Mackaye Trail Association

This trail shares its starting point with the Appalachian Trail on Springer Mountain. Like the longer AT, the BMT explores the lush valleys and exposed balds of Georgia, North Carolina, and Tennessee, culminating in a traverse of Great Smoky Mountains National Park — albeit a different part of the park than the AT. It’s a great alternative for southeastern hikers seeking a change of scenery or more solitude than the ever-popular AT can offer.

• How To Hike the Benton Mackaye Trail
• The AT Is Crowded. Why Not Start Your Thru-Hike on the BMT Instead?

Buckeye Trail

US long-distance trails: The Buckeye Trail. Strafpeloton2 photo

• Length: 1444 mi | 2324 km
• Trail Organization: Buckeye Trail Association

This gigantic loop trail is the perfect way to get to know Ohio on a deeper level. Late spring and early fall offer the best conditions, but you can technically hike it year-round — which is good, since it takes about three months to complete and you therefore won’t be able to thru-hike the entire thing within the ideal weather window.

• How To Travel Around Ohio: The 1444-Mile Buckeye Trail

California Coastal Trail

US long-distance trails: the California Coastal Trail. Seashell photo

• Length: 1230 mi | 2324 km
• Trail Organization: State of California Coastal Conservancy

I don’t know what we really need to say to sell you guys on hiking the entirety of California’s gorgeous coastline, some 1200 miles from Mexico to Oregon. The trail is over 70 percent complete at this point, and if you really wanted to get wild you could connect it to the Oregon Coast Trail and have an even longer seaside adventure.

• The Longest Trail

Cohos Trail

US long-distance trails: The Cohos Trail. Effie Drew photo

• Length: 162 mi | 261 km
• Hiking season:  Spring, Summer, Fall
• Trail Organization: Cohos Trail Association

Despite the White Mountains’ popularity as a hiking destination, the relatively new Cohos Trail still flies under the radar. Running from Crawford Notch to the Canadian border, this rugged thru-hike packs plenty of stunning scenery and a whole lot of challenge into a short number of miles.

READ NEXT – The Cohos Trail: 170 Miles in New Hampshire’s North Woods

Continental Divide Trail

US long-distance trails: The Continental Divide Trail. Flower photo

• Length: 3100 mi | 4989 km
• States: NM, CO, WY, ID, MT
• Hiking season: Late Spring, Summer, Early Fall
• Trail Organization: Continental Divide Trail Coalition

Officially, the CDT is 3,100 miles. Functionally, most CDT thru-hikes are significantly shorter than that due to the trail’s choose-your-own adventure vibes. With plenty of alternates to choose from (even the trail’s northern and southern termini aren’t fixed — you can officially start and end your hike in several different locations), no two CDT thru-hikes are exactly the same, and that’s part of what makes the trail so unforgettable.

• 3,000 Miles My Ass: Why the Continental Divide Trail Isn’t as Long as Everyone Says It Is
• An Overview of Major CDT Alternates
• 9 Reasons You Should Hike the CDT SOBO
• 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Hiking the CDT

Colorado Trail

US long-distance trails: The Colorado Trail. Zach Davis photo

• Length: 483 mi | 777 km
• Hiking season: Summer, Early Fall
• Trail Organization: Colorado Trail Foundation

This nearly 500-mile trek from Denver to Durango showcases some of the best hiking the Colorado Rockies have to offer, from the famous Collegiate Peaks to the breathtaking San Juans. The CT shares many miles with the longer Continental Divide Trail and also comes within spitting distance of numerous 14ers.

• 86 Absolutely Stunning Photos From the Colorado Trail
• The Colorado Trail Guide: Everything You Need To Know To Hike the CT (Gear, Resupply, Route Description, and More)
• Every Colorado Trail Town, Ranked
• The Colorado Trail vs. the John Muir Trail: Which Is Better?

Eastern Continental Trail

US long-distance trails: The Eastern Continental Trail. Owen Eigenbrot photo

• Length: 5700 mi | 9173 km
• States: FL, AL, GA, NC, TN, VA, WV, MD, PA, NJ, NY, CT, MA, VT, NH, ME | ON, QC, PE, NL
• Trail Organization: Florida Trail Association , Alabama Hiking Trail Society , Benton Mackaye Trail Association , Appalachian Trail Conservancy , International Appalachian Trail Council

The ECT isn’t one trail, but rather a network combining the Florida, Appalachian, Pinhoti, Benton Mackaye, and International Appalachian trails to form one gigantic route from the Florida Keys to the tip of Newfoundland, enabling a hiker to traverse the east coast of North America from tip to tip.

The ECT can range from a piddly 4,400 miles all the way up to 5,700, depending on which Florida Trail alternates a hiker chooses and whether they end the hike in Cape Gaspé, Quebec or continue onward to Newfoundland.

• Peg Leg’s ECT blog
• Owen “AtHome” Eigenbrot’s ECT blog
• Essential Gear for a 4400-Mile ECT Thru-Hike

Finger Lakes Trail

US long-distance trails: the Finger Lakes Trail. Kim photo

• Length: 580 mi | 933 km
• Trail Organization: Finger Lakes Trail Conference

Anyone who’s ever drooled over pictures of the majestic waterfalls and gorges in Watkins Glen will probably love the Finger Lakes Trail, which goes east-west across upstate New York and even has a branch connector from Niagara Falls. Many branches, spurs, and loops connect to the FLT, so you’ll have the opportunity to plan endless itineraries — or go for the whole enchilada and hike the roughly 580-mile main trail end to end.

Florida Trail

US long-distance trails: The Florida Trail. Owen Eigenbrot photo

• Length: 1500 mi | 2414 km
• Hiking season: Winter
• Trail Organization: Florida Trail Association

One of the very few longer American thru-hikes that can be completed in winter, the FT is growing in popularity with each passing year. What this weird and wonderful trail lacks in mountain peaks it makes up for in a buffet of ecosystems, a welcoming trail community, and the opportunity to see gators in the wild (yay!). It’s also part of the much longer Eastern Continental Trail.

READ NEXT –  11 Reasons the Florida Trail Is Awesome

Grand Enchantment Trail

US long-distance trails: The Grand Enchantment Trail. Taylor Radigan photo

• Length: 770 mi | 1240 km
• States: AZ, NM
• Trail Organization: n/a

Designed by Brett Tucker, the GET has no official Trail Organization and isn’t even an officially recognized trail. That said, Tucker’s website is a phenomenal trip planning resource for anyone hoping to thru-hike between Phoenix and Albuquerque on this popular desert route. It’s not for the faint of heart and is unsuitable for beginners.

READ NEXT – Getting Enchanted: The Grand Enchantment Trail

Hayduke Trail

US long-distance trails: The Hayduke. Danielle Vilaplana photo

• Length: 812 mi | 1307 km
• States: UT, AZ

The Hayduke is one of the most brutal, glorious hikes in the US. The route, which was designed by Joe Mitchell and Mike Coronella and named after a fictional character in Edward Abbey’s Monkey Wrench Gang , crosses Utah diagonally from Arches National Park to Zion National Park.

Hikers should be prepared for extremely challenging water carries and resupply logistics, as well as rugged, dangerous terrain, mostly off-trail navigation, and constant exposure to the elements in the high desert. Mitchell’s website, hayduketrail.org , is a phenomenal resource for anyone ambitious enough to thru-hike of this beast of a route.

• Hiking the Hayduke: Welcome to the Wild, Wild (South) West
• Tips for Caching Food and Water on the Hayduke
• Backpacker Radio 109: The Real Hiking Viking on the Hayduke

Ice Age Trail

US long-distance trails: The Ice Age Trail. Claire Kopetsky photo

• Length: 1200 mi | 1931 km
• Hiking season: Summer, Fall
• Trail Organization: Ice Age Trail Alliance

The Ice Age Trail (IAT) is long but gentle, with minimal elevation gain and loss and regular access to towns. Per its name, the trail explores the glaciated landscapes left behind after the last ice age. Geology lovers and anyone in the mood for a more laid-back midwestern thru-hike will enjoy the IAT.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Ice Age Trail: 1200 Meandering Miles of Wisconsin’s Glacial Landscape

Idaho Centennial Trail

• Length: 996 mi | 1603 km
• Trail Organization: Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation

Only a handful of intrepid thru-hikers have ever completed the grueling ICT. The little-maintained trail involves hundreds of miles of bushwhacking as much of the original treadway has gone back to nature over the years. But for those who like a good sufferfest (and the reward of having some of Idaho’s most spectacular scenery all to themselves), it just might be the perfect thru-hike.

John Muir Trail

US long-distance trails: The John Muir Trail. Jim Rahtz photo

• Length: 211 mi | 340 km
• Trail Organization: John Muir Trail Wilderness Conservancy

Named after the pioneering naturalist, the John Muir Trail is sometimes described as the most famous long trail in America. Traversing the most majestic passes of the High Sierra and going right over the summit of Mt. Whitney, the tallest peak in the lower 48, it certainly is one of the most spectacular. Much of the JMT runs concurrent with the PCT, so if you want a little Triple Crown flavor in a smaller package, the JMT might be perfect for you.

• How To Hike the John Muir Trail: 211 Miles of Bucket List Hiking
• A Complete Guide to Resupply on the John Muir Trail
• How To Get a Permit for the John Muir Trail
• 10 Things I Wish I’d Known Before Hiking the John Muir Trail

Lone Star Hiking Trail

US long-distance trails: The Lone Star Trail. Katie Houston photo

• Length: 96 mi | 154 km
• Hiking season: Winter, Spring
• Trail Organization: Lone Star Hiking Trail Club

This short and sweet week-long thru-hike is the longest continuous footpath in Texas. It’s perfect for those who want solitude and to explore a variety of Texas ecosystems.

• How To Hike the Lone Star Hiking Trail
• 5 Things You Should Know About the Lone Star Hiking Trail

US long-distance trails: The Long Path. Famartin photo

• Length: 358 mi | 576 km
• States: NY, NJ
• Trail Organization: New York – New Jersey Trail Conference

Not to be confused with the more famous Long Trail in Vermont, the Long Path starts in New York City and runs 358 miles to Joyce Boyd Thacher State Park west of Albany. The trail is currently thru-hikeable, but you should do some planning ahead of time as camping is not allowed on some parts of the trail. As it stands now, the route includes some 60 miles of road walking.

US long-distance trails: The Long Trail. Zach Davis photo

• Length: 272 mi | 438 km
• Trail Organization: Green Mountain Club

In many ways, the aptly named Long Trail is the footpath that started it all. The storied route is credited as America’s first long-distance hiking trail. First envisioned by James P. Taylor, the Long Trail was Benton Mackaye’s inspiration for proposing an even longer Appalachian Trail, and we all know how that one worked out.

The LT is challenging but gorgeous in its own right, doling out classic New England sufferfest and breathtaking Green Mountain views in equal measure.

• A Guide to Thru-Hiking the Long Trail in Vermont
• The Long Trail Survey: Favorite Towns, Restaurants, Shelters, Gear, and More

Lost Coast Trail

US long-distance trails: The Lost Coast Trail. Kenny Howell photo

• Length: 52 mi | 84 km
• Trail Organization: Bureau of Land Management

This short but popular hike is a perfect way to explore the unique and stunning environments of the northern California coastline. Bring a tide chart and plan to get your feet wet, but it will be worth it for the tide pools, sea lion sightings, and sunset over the Pacific each evening. The LCT is part of the much longer California Coastal Trail, which traverses the entire coastline of the state.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Lost Coast Trail

Mid State Trail

US long-distance trails: The Mid State Trail. Yard Sale photo

• Length: 327 mi | 527 km
• Trail Organization: Mid State Trail Association

Described as Pennsylvania’s longest and wildest footpath, the MST traverses the length of the state from south to north. It’s a different flavor of PA hiking compared to the section of the AT that runs through the state: the MST is longer, far more remote, and (according to many who have hiked both trails) more rewarding. Do some research ahead of time, as limited resupply opportunities and camping restrictions in certain parts of the trail make end-to-end logistics somewhat challenging.

• Go Wild: Meet Pennnsylvania’s Mid State Trail
• Maryland Border to Everett: Days 1-3 on the Mid State Trail (Mid State Trail daily hiking blog)

Mountains-to-Sea Trail

US long-distance trails: The Mountains-to-Sea Trail. Sprout photo

• Length: 1175 mi | 1891 km
• Trail Organization: Friends of the Mountains-to-Sea Trail

Conditions will be nicest on the MST in spring and fall, but thru-hikers will likely see a bit of summer weather on one end or the other as it typically takes three or four months to hike the full length of the trail from Clingmans Dome, down through the Piedmont region, and finally to the Atlantic Ocean at Jockey’s Ridge State Park.

• An Overview of North Carolina’s Mountains to Sea Trail
• 10 Undeniable Truths of North Carolina’s Mountains to Sea Trail

Natchez Trace

US long-distance trails: The Natchez Trace. Apple Pie photo

• Length: 444 mi | 715 km
• States: AL, MS, TN
• Trail Organization: Natchez Trace Parkway Association

The Natchez Trace is one of the USA’s National Scenic Trails, but really it’s a National Scenic Parkway — essentially a 444-mile road walk. For this reason, many people choose to bike it rather than walking it. Still, if you’re looking to hike all of the National Scenic Trails and are a stickler for details, it can technically be thru-hiked.

READ NEXT – A National Scenic Road Walk?

New England Trail

US long-distance trails: The New England Trail. Trishadee Newlin photo

• Length: 235 mi | 378 km
• States: CT, MA
• Trail Organization: Appalachian Mountain Club (MA), Connecticut Forest and Park Association (CT)

The NET is compact at just 235 miles, but when you reach the northern terminus at the Massachusetts/New Hampshire border, you’ll have the option to keep heading north and pick up other trail systems for even more New England goodness.

READ NEXT – The New England Trail, Part 1 (NET daily hiking blog)

North Country Trail

US long-distance trails: The North Country Trail. Maggie Mitchell photo

• Length: 4800 mi | 7725 km
• States: ND, MN, WI, MI, OH, PA, NY, VT
• Trail Organization: North Country Trail Association

Do the Triple Crown Trails sound a little too short for you? If you’re looking for an insanely long trail to tackle next hiking season (and you will probably need every minute of hiking season you can possible squeeze out to complete the nearly 5,000-mile trek), the North Country Trail could be a great option. The eastern end of the NCT connects to the AT, so true hiking addicts can get even more bonus miles.

NEXT – Backpacker Radio 72: Luke “Strider” Jordan on the North Country Trail and Great Plains Trail

Northville-Placid Trail

US long-distance trails: The Northville-Placid Trail. Kyle O’Grady photo

• Length: 133 mi | 214 km
• Trail Organization: Adirondack Mountain Club

This roughly two-week thru-hike is a perfect way to experience a less-known side of the glorious Adirondacks. You won’t bag High Peaks on the NPT, but you’ll get to explore serene valleys and lakes that relatively few visitors to the region see. The terrain is a lot more moderate than that of most New England trails, too, which is a win if you’re looking for a more laid back experience.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Northville Placid Trail: A 133-Mile Hidden Gem in the Adirondacks

Oregon Coast Trail

US long-distance trails: The Oregon Coast Trail. Emily Rahn photo

• Length: 362 mi | 583 km
• Trail Organization: Oregon Coast Trail Foundation

America’s rugged west coast is stunning, thanks to its white sandy beaches, rocky cliffs plunging into the sea, charismatic seastacks, and delicate tidal pools brimming with marine wildlife. While the west coast has always been a popular road trip destination, the self-explanatory Oregon Coast Trail gives section- and thru-hikers the chance to thoroughly explore those stunning landscapes on foot.

Oregon Desert Trail

US long-distance trails: The Oregon Desert Trail. Katie Gerber photo

• Length: 750 mi | 1207 km
• Trail Organization: Oregon Natural Desert Association

Only a few dozen people have ever thru-hiked this daunting trail. For those who love arid and austere desert landscapes, the remote and little-trafficked Oregon Desert Trail could be the perfect challenge.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Oregon Desert Trail: 750 Miles Across Eastern Oregon’s High Desert

Ouachita Trail

US long-distance trails: The Ouachita Trail. J Taylor Bell photo

• Length: 223 mi | 359 km
• States: OK, AR
• Trail Organization: Friends of the Ouachita Trail

The Ouachita is (relatively) short and (relatively) not too hard. You could probably hike it year-round, to be honest, but fall and spring would give you the best weather conditions. It’s an ideal shakedown hike for longer trails like the AT but also stands in its own right with beautiful water features and scenic Appalachian views throughout.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Ouachita Trail: 223 Rocky and Remote Miles in the Mountains of Oklahoma and Arkansas

Ozark Highlands Trail

US long-distance trails: The Ozark Highlands Trail. Guinevere Drabik photo

• Length: 320 mi | 515 km
• Hiking season: Winter, Spring, Fall
• Trail Organization: Ozark Highlands Trail Association

The Ozark Highlands Trail is still a work in progress, with about 270 of its eventual 320 miles officially complete. You can still thru-hike it as long as you don’t mind the occasional bushwalk and/or road walk, though. The OHT is one of those rare North American thru-hikes that is hikeable even in the dead of winter, making it perfect for anyone trying to stay in touch with their trashy side in the off season.

• Backpacker Radio 197: Tim Ernst on Founding the Ozark Highlands Trail
• Backpacker Radio 199: Chaunce and Fireball Hiked the Ozark Highlands Trail

Ozark Trail

US long-distance trails: The Ozark Trail. Kbh3rd photo

• Length: 230 mi | 370 km
• Trail Organization: Ozark Trail Association

Not to be confused with the Ozark Highlands Trail listed above (or the line of outdoor gear from Walmart), the Ozark Trail stretches across the spine of the Ozark Mountains in Missouri. The OT is very much a work in progress. Some 400 miles of trail are complete right now, but the Ozark Trail Association currently defines a thru-hike as a hike that covers the contiguous 230 miles of trail along the Ozark Ridge.

When completed, the OT will be around 500 miles and will connect to the OHT, its counterpart in the Arkansas Ozarks, to make a 700-ish-mile thru-hike.

Pacific Crest Trail

US long-distance trails: The Pacific Crest Trail.

• Length: 2650 mi | 4265 km
• States: CA, OR, WA
• Hiking season: Spring, Summer, Early Fall
• Trail Organization: Pacific Crest Trail Association

The PCT is arguably the most charismatic long trail in the United States, its splendor drawing hikers from all over the world. From arid southern California, the trail crosses the untamed passes of the High Sierra and meanders north through the lush forests and snow-capped peaks of Oregon and Washington — a grueling, glorious highlights reel from start to finish.

• The Pacific Crest Trail Thru-Hiker Gear List
• A Complete Guide to Resupply on the PCT
• A List of Individual Permits Needed To Thru-Hike the PCT
• The PCT Thru-Hiker Checklist: 29 Things To Do Before You Head to Campo

Pacific Northwest Trail

US long-distance trails: The Pacific Northwest Trail. Jeff Kish photo

• States: MT, ID, WA
• Trail Organization: Pacific Northwest Trail Association

Unlike the north-south Triple Crown Trails, the remote and little-walked PNT runs east-west from the Rocky Mountains in Montana to the Pacific Ocean in Washington, going up and over no fewer than seven(!) mountain ranges. This all makes for a rugged walk with a lot of elevation change and plenty of routefinding challenges.

But on the other hand, you cross through three national parks (Glacier, North Cascades, and Olympic), seeing some of the most pristine and beautiful corners of the nation along the way. Finishing the PNT puts you in a rarefied group, as only a few dozen people complete the trail each year.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Pacific Northwest Trail: 1200 Miles of Rugged Wilderness

Palmetto Trail

US long-distance trails: The Palmetto Trail. MAV photo

• Length: 425 mi | 684 km
• Trail Organization: Palmetto Conservation Foundation

Some 365 miles of the cross-state Palmetto Trail are currently complete, but it will eventually stretch nearly 500 miles from the Oconee County Mountains in the west to the Intracoastal Waterway in the east. Intrepid thru-hikers can still go from end to end, improvising in the as-yet incomplete sections to connect existing passages of the PT.

Pinhoti Trail

US long-distance trails: The Pinhoti Trail. None Given photo

• Length: 335 mi | 539 km
• States: AL, GA
• Trail Organization: Georgia Pinhoti Trail Association , Alabama Trails Foundation

From Flagg Mountain in Alabama, you can hike all the way up to Springer in Georgia and connect to the AT. The Pinhoti Trail is similar to the AT in many ways, although it is dramatically less crowded. For anyone looking for an off-season thru-hike that boasts Appalachian splendor minus the hordes of people, the Pinhoti is an excellent choice.

Sheltowee Trace

US long-distance trails: The Sheltowee Trace. Jim Rahtz photo

• Length: 343 mi | 552 km
• Trail Organization: Sheltowee Trace Association

The Sheltowee Trace is one of the gems of the Midwest: proof, if anyone needs it, that the heart of the country is home to just as much stunning nature as any other region. Relatively speaking, the trail is physically and logistically easy to hike, and at 343 miles it’s long enough to feel like a proper thru but short enough to squeeze into a few weeks of vacation time.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Sheltowee Trace: Kentucky’s 323-Mile Long Trail

South Dakota Centennial Trail

US long-distance trails: The South Dakota Centennial Trail. Clay Bonnyman Evans photo

• Length: 123 mi | 198 km

The Centennial Trail is short enough to thru-hike in about a week and will give you an excellent sampling of South Dakota’s austere beauty, including icons like Bear Butte (pictured above) and Mount Rushmore. Terrain and navigation are (for the most part) not too challenging, but water availability can vary drastically depending on the time of year.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the South Dakota Centennial Trail

Superior Hiking Trail

US long-distance trails: The Superior Hiking Trail. Jenna Ivey photo

• Length: 310 mi | 499 km
• Trail Organization: Superior Hiking Trail Association

Skirting Lake Superior on Minnesota’s North Shore, the SHT is a nature lover’s dream trail. Brimming with biodiversity and unique ecosystems, the trail also delivers on classic vistas looking out over lush, forested landscapes and the Great Lake itself.

• How To Hike the Superior Hiking Trail
• The Superior Hiking Trail Section-by-Section Guide

Tahoe Rim Trail

US long-distance trails: The Tahoe Rim Trail. Jim Rahtz photo

• Length: 165 mi | 265 km
• States:  NV, CA
• Trail Organization: Tahoe Rim Trail Association

On the Tahoe Rim Trail, you’ll experience the same epic High Sierra vibes of the JMT but with reduced length and difficulty. The fact that it’s a loop hike also adds to the TRT’s allure: not many thru-hikes are this logistically easy to plan. Despite being named after a gigantic body of water, you’ll need to be careful with your water supply, as the universal solvent can be surprisingly scarce.

This region is stunningly beautiful and should be on every outdoor enthusiast’s bucket list to visit.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Tahoe Rim Trail: 170 Miles Around — Yep — Lake Tahoe

Timberline Trail

US long-distance trails: The Timberline Trail. Sydney Brehm photo

• Length: 42 mi | 68 km
• Trail Organization: USDA Forest Service – Mt. Hood National Forest

The Timberline Trail is like a shorter, wilder version of the Wonderland Trail hike. Short enough to complete in two to four days, it’s by no means an easy hike. Don’t miss out on the luxe breakfast buffet at Timberline Lodge when you pass through.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Timberline Trail: 42 Stunning Miles Around Mt. Hood

Trans-Catalina Trail

US long-distance trails: The Trans-Catalina Trail. Alexandria Cremer photo

• Length: 39 mi | 63 km
• Trail Organization: Catalina Island Conservancy

The juxtaposition of Catalina Island’s arid chaparral landscapes with the surrounding deep blue sea makes for a striking contrast. Although short, the TCT is challenging, beautiful, and utterly unique. Make sure you get the free permit through the Catalina Island Conservancy’s website and remember that you have to catch a ferry from the mainland to access the trailhead.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Trans Catalina Trail: Three Days of Oceanfront Views and Steep Climbs

Uinta Highline Trail

US long-distance trails: The Uinta Highline Trail. Katie Kommer photo

• Length: 102 mi | 164 km
• Trail Organization: Uinta Highline Trail

Many people, when asked to call up a mental image of Utah, envision something very dry and red. Yet the high peaks of the Uinta Mountains, with their lush forests, alpine tundra, and tranquil lakes, feel more akin to (what our collective imagination thinks of as) Colorado. This compact end-to-end thru will give you a glorious taste of what the Rockies have to offer without you having to take off more than a week from work.

READ NEXT – How To Hike the Uinta Highline Trail: 100 Miles in Utah’s Rugged Backcountry

Wonderland Trail

US long-distance trails: The Wonderland Trail.

• Length: 93 mi | 150 km
• Trail Organization: Mt Rainier National Park

This iconic loop hike circumnavigating Mt. Rainier is one of the most scenic short backpacking trips in the country and a bucket list experience for many hikers. With rigorous terrain and a competitive permit system, the WT is not without its challenges, but the rewards of this classic Pacific Northwest trek are well worth the struggle.

• How To Hike the Wonderland Trail
• How To Get a Permit for the Wonderland Trail, According to a Ranger

Featured image: Graphic design by Chris Helm .

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Oh hey there! I'm Ibex, managing editor of this site. I mostly spend my spare time scheming new adventures and inadvertently setting my hair on fire while cooking. Thru-hikes: Appalachian Trail 2018 | Wonderland Trail 2019 | Colorado Trail 2020 + 2021 | Wind River High Route 2022 | Pyrenean Haute Route 2023

How to Train for a Long Distance Hike

How to train for a long distance hike or multi-day trek, 7 minute read.

Are you planning your first thru hike, multi-day trek, or long distance hike ? If so, there are a few things you need to do to make sure you’re prepared. A trip like this requires a great deal of exercise and physical endurance . The more time you put into training and preparation, the safer and more enjoyable the adventure will be! In this article, I will discuss how to train for a long distance hike.

The world is filled with fantastic long hikes. From the Pacific Crest Trail (2,650 miles) and Appalachian Trail (2,190 miles) in the US, to the Camino de Santiago (500 miles) and Tour du Mont Blanc (103 miles) in mainland Europe. In the UK we have many fantastic hikes too such as the South West Coast Path (630 miles) and West Highland Way (96 miles).

I will provide info on what I’ve done in the past, what I’ve learnt, and what has worked for me. In 2020, I hiked almost 500 miles of long distance trails in the UK. I completed the 186-mile Pembrokeshire Coast Path , the 84-mile Hadrian’s Wall Path , and the 100-mile South Downs Way . The rest of the miles I completed during training hikes in the Surrey Hills , Peak District , and South Down National Park .

I walked the trails solo, wild camping along the way. I carried all my equipment, including food, water, cooking utensils, and camping gear. For the most part, I completed the hikes in one multi-day trip. Hadrian’s Wall took me a week, Pembrokeshire took 2 weeks, and the South Downs Way I split into a 3-day hike followed by a few long day hikes.

So how did I do it? What are my tips and how can you do multi-day treks like this too?

Here’s how to train for a long distance hike:

• Weight Training
• Yoga & Stretching
• Warm-up Walks
• Getting to Know Your Equipment

See also: 10 Tips for Beginner Hikers 10 Hiking Safety Tips How to Go Wild Camping in the UK

1. weight training.

The number one thing to consider, is how physical this hike will be. You are essentially doing strenuous exercise, over challenging terrain, all day, every day, for the duration of your trip. On top of that, you will likely be carrying a heavy backpack. Unless you have particularly expensive and lightweight kit, your equipment can range from 10-15 kg for the average hiker. (If it’s heavier than this, you need to look at lightening your load).

Weight training helps to strengthen your body before your hike. Most importantly, it allows your muscles time to recover and grow in the build up to your trip. This means that when you are out on the trail, your body will know what to expect and will be better prepared to face these hardships.

You want to focus on your legs , your core , and you back/shoulders . These are the muscle groups that will be subjected to the most pressure when on a long-distance hike. When training, you should opt for low weight and high frequency . You don’t need to build huge amounts of muscle. It’s more important your body becomes accustomed to extended periods of stress at a lower weight to stimulate the conditions of hiking.

There are a number of exercises that can be of benefit. If you have access to a gym, squats and deadlifts are both excellent compound movements that will strengthen your legs and core. Mix in compound movements with isolation exercises to target these muscle groups.

Here’s a list of exercises I often do at the gym including sets and rep ranges. I often go heavy on the compound movements and lighter on isolation exercises with more reps:

• Deadlift: 4 x 8-10 reps
• Squat: 4 x 8-10 reps
• Pull Ups: 4 x 6-8 reps
• Dips: 4 x 10-12 reps
• Bent Over Row: 4 x 8-10 reps
• Lat Pull Downs: 4 x 8-10 reps
• Barbell Lunges: 3 x 10-15 reps
• Walking Lunges: 4 x 10-15 reps
• Calf Raises: 3 x 10-15 reps
• Leg Extensions: 3 x 10-15 reps
• Leg Curls: 3 x 10-15 reps
• Shrugs: 3 x 10-12 reps

If you only have use of some dumbbells at home, work on lunges and calf raises . You can also do variations on these exercises with your bodyweight alone but it’s good to include some weight as an additional stressor.

2. Yoga and Stretching

This was one of the things that really caused me to excel at my hiking. I never used to stretch properly and certainly never did yoga . Little did I know how much I was limiting my potential and that I had no idea how to train for a long distance hike. I even trekked the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal before doing any yoga or stretching. It was a far more challenging and painful experience than in needed to be.

Each day of your hike, you want to do some warm up stretches before setting off and then some warm down stretches when you stop for the night. This is something that may not have occurred to you before. Most people don’t feel the need to stretch before going on a walk! However, it’s important to distinguish between a walk and a hike – the later being far more physical!

I spend 15 or 20 minutes stretching before and after each day. I focus on the areas that cause me the most trouble but this will differ for each individual. Try to start at your legs , focusing on your achilles tendons , calves , thighs , and glutes before moving up to your hips , shoulders , and neck . Begin with static stretches then slowly incorporate movement as your body warms up. This will keep your blood flowing and allows you to hit the ground running.

At the end of the day, follow a similar stretch pattern but hold each stretch for longer . This stops your muscles freezing up and reduces the chance of any injuries and strains. It also goes a long way to reducing any aches you might have the following day!

Yoga is an extension of stretching, and something that can be done before you set off on your hike. Whereas lifting weight targets your muscles, yoga can help workout your tendons and ligaments . It increases your flexibility and works on your core strength .

I began by following along with some videos on YouTube. Like most people, I started by watching Yoga With Adriene . They are excellent videos and walk you through all the basics. After doing it for a while you can pick up the best poses that work for you to use out on the trail.

All these improvements will help greatly when you’re out hiking 8-10 hours a day for a week. The more preparation you can give your body, the less likely you are to injure yourself and the more you will learn how to train for a long distance hike!

3. Warm-up Walks

The next thing to consider, is going on some training hikes. This works in the same way you might train for a marathon. Repeatedly going on shorter walks over varying terrain will build up your endurance ready for the big event!

In this case, look into a variety of day hikes in your area. Try to opt for different landscapes and consider what sort of long distance hike you will be going on. Search for terrain that is similar and try to do some practice hikes there.

The hikes don’t have to be extremely long but it’s worth doing them regularly. You should throw in a couple of bigger walks to see how your body feels. Start with 5 mile walks then push to some 8-10 mile hikes . Lastly, try some 10+ mile hikes as a final training session.

This is a time of trial and error. You should carry a nice light backpack and, as you’re only doing day walks, you can see how you feel after each one. This will prepare you both mentally and physically for what you will face out on the trail. That’s a huge part of knowing how to train for a long distance hike!

If possible, go on a couple of single night camping or wild camping trips. I’ve always found the kit that needs testing the most is my sleeping equipment and cooking gear . You won’t know what works and what doesn’t unless you go camping first. I went to the Peak District for a night of wild camping and found my stove didn’t work and my sleeping mat had a slow puncture. Better to find out then, on a single night of camping, rather than at the start of a 200 mile hike!

4. Getting to Know Your Equipment

This is a very important tip. If you are training for a long distance hike, you have to get to grips with all the gear you will be taking with you. It’s no good turning up on the day of your trek with a load of brand new gear you’ve got no clue how to use.

Begin with your hiking socks and boots . You must wear them in before you embark on the trail otherwise your feet will likely be riddled with blisters. Take the opportunity to do so when out on your training walks. Wear the socks you intend on bringing on your long-distance hike and make sure the combination of the two is comfortable.

See also: Day Hiking Gear Essentials

It’s during these testing hikes I’ve eventually done away with hiking boots. I now exclusively use trail running shoes for my long distance hikes. They aren’t as sturdy or waterproof but they have so many other benefits such as being lightweight, breathable, and they never give me any blisters. They are immensely comfortable over long distances and are my go to footwear!

Next test your backpack . Try out a few variations and see what works for you. It may take some time to get this right and you might have to go through a few before you find one you love. I’ve had 3 or 4 in my lifetime and am still not 100% satisfied I’ve found the “perfect” one. The most important thing is that it is comfortable and feels as light as possible. Go smaller rather than bigger – 40 or 50 litres and no more .

Next you can go through all your equipment inside the bag. Unfortunately, most items will require testing before you know what you need and what you don’t. Hence why it’s worth doing your training hikes so you know what works for you before embarking on your big trip.

See also: Long Distance Hiking Kit List

Each time you go hiking, you gather a little more info, all of which is invaluable. You begin to get a clear picture on how you like to hike, what feels good, what equipment you rate, and ultimately how to train for a long distance hike. You will soon gather your own tips and strategies for how to prepare and hopefully you can complete plenty of great hikes!

Before You Go

Thanks for reading my article on how to train for a long distance hike. If travel guides like this interest you, head over to  my blog page  to find out more!

If you’re new to  Walk Wild , check out the  About Me  page to learn who I am and what made me want to be a travel writer.

Please comment below, let me know what you think and if there’s anything else you want information on!

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World's Best Long-Distance Hikes

The Best Long-Distance Hiking Trails in the World

TripSavvy / Linda Strauta

Epic in length and challenge, long-distance hiking trails often represent the ultimate in adventure travel experiences for dedicated backpackers. These routes can stretch for hundreds of miles and often take weeks—or even months—to complete. Along the way, they pass through some of the most scenic and remote landscapes on the planet, where solitude and tranquility can be found in abundance.

If this kind of experience sounds appealing to you, there are plenty of trails that can provide it. From the summits of snow-capped peaks, to the sandy shores of the sea, these are the absolute best long-distance hiking trails in the world. So lace up your boots, grab your pack, and let’s get started, because there are a lot of miles to cover before we’re through.

The Appalachian Trail (United States)

Cavan Images /Getty Images

Any discussion of the best long-distance hiking trails in the world has to include the Appalachian Trail in the U.S. Widely regarded as the finest long-distance route in the world, the AT—as it's referred to by backpackers—opened in 1921, making it one of the first big backpacking routes on the planet. Stretching for 2,200 miles between Springer Mountain in Georgia and Mount Katahdin in Maine, the trail passes through more than a dozen states along its length. Along the way, it wanders through some of the most scenic locations that the Eastern U.S. has to offer.

Most hikers only take on short segments of the AT, walking for just a few days or even a couple of weeks at a time. But this iconic route has also given rise to the "thru-hiker," which is someone who hikes the entire route—start to finish—in one go. This can take weeks or even months to complete, but it is a challenge that many have completed. It is also now a common practice on many other trails too, but thru-hiking traces its origin back to the Appalachian Trail.

Te Araroa (New Zealand)

Photograph by Michael Schwab /Getty Images

The 1864-mile Te Araroa Track in New Zealand is an utterly spectacular hike that gives the Appalachian Trail a run for its money when it comes to love from the backpacking crowd. The name is derived from the language of the indigenous Maori, and it appropriately means "the long pathway." To wander this route end to end, you'll need to start at Cape Regina at the northernmost tip of the North Island and walk all the way to Bluff, at the southernmost end of the South Island. In between, trekkers will find just about every kind of landscape imaginable, from snowcapped peaks, to wide-open meadows, to beaches and deserts, and more. This is a classic hike that should be on every backpacker's bucket list.

The Great Himalaya Trail (Nepal)

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Nepal is one of the best destinations on the planet when it comes to trekking, so naturally it is also home to one of the world's great long-distance routes. The Great Himalaya Trail links up a number of smaller trekking routes, allowing backpackers to wander the entire length of Nepal east to west. The trail is more than 1,000 miles in length and has a surprisingly great infrastructure in place to support trekkers as they go. While camping en route is an option, there are many Nepali villages that fall along the GHT, allowing travelers to stay in rustic and traditional teahouses instead. It goes without saying that the scenery is epic, of course, as hikers pass in the shadow of the world's highest mountains, including Mt. Everest itself.

The Pacific Crest Trail (USA)

Danita Delimont /Getty Images

The U.S. isn't home to just one amazing long-distance hiking trail, but three. The second of the so-called Tripe Crown of Hiking is the Pacific Crest Trail , which runs for 2,653 miles through the Cascade and Sierra Nevada Mountains of California, Oregon, and Washington. Backpackers taking on the entire PCT will essentially find themselves walking from the Canadian Border in the north, to the Mexican border in the south, crossing through some of the most breathtakingly beautiful scenery that North America has to offer.

The Camino de Santiago (France, Spain, and Portugal)

One of the most famous hikes in all of Europe, the Camino de Santiago takes backpackers across France , Spain , and Portugal along a 500-mile path that has been walked by religious pilgrims for centuries. This hike is more than just a good way to stretch your legs, however, as it is an immersive trek through culture and history passing through villages and towns that have been on this path for hundreds of years.

The Camino is actually made up of a number of smaller, interconnected trails, so the length can vary a bit based on your chosen route. The most popular of those routes begins in Biarritz, France, and ends in Santiago, Spain, requiring about three weeks to complete. Even today, there is a strong spiritual component to this journey, with many backpackers taking inspiration from wandering through the wilderness in the footsteps of the thousands of pilgrims who have gone before them.

The Great Trail (Canada)

Milo Zanecchia/ Ascent Xmedia /Getty Images

In terms of size and scope, it is hard to top Canada's Great Trail . The route runs for more than 16,000 miles across the country, though it isn't just the sheer length that makes this route so incredible, but the diversity of the landscapes, too. Stretching from the Atlantic in the east all the way to the Pacific in the west, while also dipping to the U.S.-Canada border in the south and heading north all the way to the Arctic, the GT passes through a stunning array of ecosystems. Hikers will cross open plains, climb through towering mountains, wander along rivers, and trek across glaciers. They'll also get the chance to not just walk, but also ride bikes and paddle canoes and kayaks along the way too.

If you want a truly epic challenge the Great Trail will definitely deliver everything you could ask for, and more.

Jordan Trail (Jordan)

Helena Tegenfeldt / EyeEm /Getty Images

The aptly-named Jordan Trail can be found in the country of Jordan , starting at Um Qais in the North and ending along the shores of the Red Sea in Aqaba in the south. At 400 miles in length, it is one of the shorter routes on this list, but that doesn't mean that is isn't a grand adventure—wandering this ancient path will take hikers across the entire length of the country. Along the way, they'll trek through the desert, past ancient Roman ruins, through the rose-red city of Petra , and over surprisingly rugged and remote mountains. It is a truly remarkable journey that deserves its spot among the best long-distance trails in the world.

Continental Divide Trail (United States)

Peter McBride /Getty Images

The third leg of the Triple Crown of Hiking runs through the Rocky Mountains. That's where long-distance hikers will find the Continental Divide Trail , a route that covers 3,100 miles starting at the Mexican border in New Mexico and crossing into Canada before ending in Alberta. As the name implies, the CDT, as it is known, follows the Continental Divide of North America, passing through incredibly remote and scenic landscapes along the way. Longer and more challenging that the Appalachian Trail or Pacific Crest Trail, this route sees much less traffic, making it a more peaceful walk from end to end.

Tokai Nature Trail (Japan)

© Marco Bottigelli /Getty Images

Hiking and backpacking culture is alive and well in Japan, as evidenced by the fantastic Tokai Nature Trail . This route runs from Tokyo's Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park all the way to Meiji no Mori Mino Quasi-National Park in Osaka, passing countless scenic vistas. The connection with nature is a big draw for most trekkers, though the path also connects with numerous cultural and historical sites along the way. The route was specifically chosen for its ability to lure hikers away from busy cities and large crowds, immersing them instead in the tranquil solitude of the Japanese wilderness. The Tokai Nature Trail even passes through the shadow of Mt. Fuji, the most famous and sacred of mountains within the country.

Drakensberg Grand Traverse (South Africa and Lesotho)

Emil Von Maltitz /Getty Images

Despite the fact that the Drakensberg Grand Traverse is "only" 150 miles in length, it still requires two to three weeks to complete. That's because it passes through some of the more remote and rugged wilderness in all of South Africa and Lesotho, and requires strong navigational skills in order to do so. Technically, there is no preset route to be found here, and backpackers can choose the path that most fits their needs. But in order to claim a successful completion of the Traverse, hikers must pass through a series of eight checkpoints along the way. To achieve that they'll have to summit six individual peaks, including reaching the highest point in either country.

Trekking the DGT requires an adventurous spirit and the ability to be self-sufficient. This is a trek through a wilderness region that isn't as well marked or maintained as most of the other trails on this list. If your goal is to get away from other hikers and find solitude in the wild, you'll find a lot to love here.

The Snowman Trek (Bhutan)

© Pascal Boegli /Getty Images

Bhutan's Snowman Trek is a legendary hike through the Himalaya that is lauded for its stunning beauty, as much as its difficulty. The route takes backpackers on a journey deep into the heart of the world's highest mountain range, past beautiful jagged peaks and over icy glaciers. With more than 48,000 feet of elevation gain spread out across its 200-mile length, this trail is not for the faint of heart. But those who do venture out onto this path will discover that it can be a life-changing experience in terms of learning more about themselves and their connection with nature.

Greater Patagonian Trail (Argentina and Chile)

DoraDalton /Getty Images

Occupying the southernmost tip of South America, and stretching across both Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is undoubtedly one of the best wilderness regions on the entire planet. In order to experience it in all of its glory, trekkers should hike at least a small segment of the Greater Patagonian Trail . The entire route stretches for over 1300 miles and usually requires more than a month to complete. But those who do wander the full distance will be treated to landscapes that are unlike anything else found on Earth. The route takes hikers through the Andes Mountains, past glacially fed lakes, around spectacularly beautiful fjords, and across open meadows that have to be see to be believed.

The GPT itself is cobbled together using hiking paths, horse trails, old jeep roads, and even some pack rafting from time to time. Good navigational skills come in handy too, but the payoff is a complete traverse of one of the best adventure travel destinations on the planet.

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Destinations » Europe

Ze Wandering Frogs

Hike, kite, dive – adventure travel with a french twist, 36 best hikes in europe for long distance hiking trails.

The Alps are, of course, the first mountain range one can think about when looking for the best hikes in Europe, but fantastic long-distance hiking trails are available throughout the continent as well. Hiking in Europe takes you from coastal lines and small villages and remote wilderness to historical sites and old castles. And of course, some of the most stunning landscapes are the mountains in Europe!

We asked fellow travel bloggers to share their favorite European long-distance paths and included several other top treks that will give you itchy feet! So if you want to know which best hiking trails Europe has to offer, check our compilation below and start preparing for your next trekking adventure.

If you feel we are missing any major long distance hiking trails Europe is famous for, definitely leave us a comment!

Best Hikes in Europe

Here are some of the best long distance trails Europe has to offer:

Austrian Alps

• England Hiking
• France Trekking
• Germany Hiking
• Greece Hiking
• Iceland Trekking
• Ireland Walks
• Italy Hiking

Norway Trekking

• Portugal Trails

Romania Mountains

• Scotland Walks

Slovakia Mountains

• Slovenia Trekking

Spain Hiking

• Sweden Reserve
• Switzerland Trekking

Hiking in Austria is a trekker’s paradise, with some of the best long distance hiking trails in Europe. Listing the best hikes in Austria would deserve its own full blog post! For now, we are listing the top Austria hiking trails as a shortlist as some of the best trails in Europe.

Stubai High Trail

The Stubai High Trail in the Tyrolean Alps in Austria covers 62 miles (100 kilometers) of breathtaking high-altitude scenery. With eight mountain huts providing food and accommodation along the way, you can hike the entire trail locally called the Stubai   Höhenweg   Trail in 8 days or cover only the section that appeals to you. Our initiation into the Stubai High Trail took us along the Wild Water Trail (Wildewasserweg) to the Sulzenau Hut near the Stubai Glacier. With two impressive waterfalls along the way, this is easily the most beautiful ascend to the Stubai High Trail.

The Grawa Waterfall, which is the widest in the Eastern Alps, marks the start of this part of the trail. Three hours later, the views from the top of the Sulzenau Waterfall make the effort to get there more than worthwhile.

Austria – Stubai High Trail / Photo Credit: Travel Tyrol

Each hut along the Stubai High Trail is the start or end of one stage of the trail. From the Sulzenau Hut, you can either walk to the Dresdner Hut or the Nürnberger Hut. A limited number of private rooms are available, with most beds in dormitories or hay barns. Good, hearty Austrian food is available at all the huts. The Stubai High Trail with accompanying huts is generally open from June to October. While reservations aren’t compulsory, it’s advisable. The last thing you want is to hike for 3 to 7 hours to find out there’s no room for you.

The Austrian and German Alpine Clubs try their best to make the hut accommodation affordable. You can generally find somewhere to lay your head down for less than 35US$ (€30). Some huts even offer a service to transport your backpack from the valley. The difference in altitude covered on the Stubai High Trail is around 26,300 feet (8,000 meters). Some parts are rated as difficult terrain, while others, like the hike to the Sulzenau Hut via the Grawa Waterfall, have an intermediate difficulty level.

By Linda from Travel Tyrol | Facebook | Instagram

Eagles Trail

The 256 miles (413 km) trail takes through Tirol and can be broken in short treks if you so choose.

Austrian Alps Hiking Resources

Click on each link to access more detailed hiking resources:

• Walking Austria’s Alps: Hut to Hut
• Trekking in the Zillertal Alps: Trekking and peaks in the Austrian Tyrol
• Austrian Alps Hiking Map
• Trip Planning: Travel Guide Austria co
• Pack an English-German Phrasebook

Hiking in England

The mountains in England might not be the first to come to mind when you think of trekking. Indeed, the highest peak in England stands at 3,208 feet (978 meters), a far cry from Mont Blanc. But what England’s tallest mountains lack in height, they make up for beautiful landscape! Indeed, the country offers plenty of awesome treks from the Lake District’s mountainous range to the coast-to-coast walks that will take you through the neat scenery of the English coast. And hiking in England always comes with an interesting history!

Hadrian’s Wall Path 

Hadrian’s Wall Path is a coast-to-coast footpath and national trail that slices across northern England. It follows the route of Hadrian’s Wall, which once formed the northern frontier of the Roman Empire. The ancient monument is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its remnants snake through the counties of Cumbria and Northumberland for 84 miles (135 kilometers).

For keen trekkers, it’s possible to complete Hadrian’s Path  in three days  of intense walking. The undulating terrain and scenic countryside mean that most people take longer. This trail is of moderate difficulty that never rises above an altitude of 1,130 feet (345 meters). Allow five to seven days if you want to pause at the numerous Roman forts, mile castles, and museums along the signposted route.

England – Hadrian’s Path / Photo Credit: Go Eat Do

It’s possible to overnight in guesthouses, hostels, and on campsites. Budget at least 65US$ (£50) a day for basic food and accommodation.

The unpredictable British weather means this is a trail that can be followed at any time of year. From November into March the landscape looks bleak. In the peak holiday season, during July and August, the footpath tends to be busy.

By Stuart of Go Eat Do  | Facebook | Instagram  

Coast to Coast Trail 

The Coast to Coast trail is by far one of my favorite UK challenges, 198 miles (318 km) from the west to the east coast of the UK, hence the name! The trail crosses through three gorgeous National Parks, the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales, and finally North York Moors.  

I completed the full trail in 13 days; you can do it faster or slower depending on how many miles you walk each day (or split into sections).

England – Coast to Coast Trek / Photo Credit: Becky The Traveller

Because this is such a long trek it does take some careful planning. Hotels and B&Bs on the route can fill up during peak times and weekends but July-August is busy in the UK. Camping is an option, but you need to factor in whether you want to carry all your gear for the full distance. Sherpa services are available that move your bags to the next location.

I trekked the Coast to Coast trail in September, which was quieter than July and August but still busy at weekends. Plus not too hot for hiking! There is no permit required to do the hike; it’s well signposted with many different ‘C2C’ signs. As regards to costs, it depends on what luxury you want, campsites start from 9US$ (£7/8), hostels around 26US$ (£20) and B&B/hotels are closer to 65US$ (£50), times that by the number of nights to give a rough estimate for your trip.

The hardest part of the Coast to Coast trail for me was at the beginning through the Lake District National Park. The toughest section was navigating Helvellyn mountain and Striding Edge (literally a jagged knife-edge walk with scary drops on each side). But equally beautiful and satisfying to complete!

The Coast to Coast trail is challenging, but it gives you a fantastic view of the UK’s best hiking paths. Plus you can say you’ve walked across the UK, which is pretty cool!

By Becky from Becky The Traveller | Facebook | Instagram

England Hiking Resources

Click on the links for more detailed information.

• Coast to Coast Hiking Map and Guide
• Hadrian’s Wall Hiking Path and Guide
• The Marches: A Borderland Journey Between England and Scotland
• Trip Planning: UK Travel Guide

Trekking France

Given the access to the Alps mountains, including the Mont Blanc mountain, France is home to some of the best places to hike in Europe (and it’s not us being biased about our native country!). The French mountain ranges are rather stunning. In addition to a Mont Blank hike in the Alps, the most famous mountains in Europe after all, Corsica and the Pyrenees hiking should be high on any trekker’s list. Find out below why we think France has some of the best long distance hiking trails Europe is home to.

Haute Route

The 12-day Haute Route is one of the most challenging long-distance hiking trails in France. The 116 miles (187 km) start from Chamonix in France and end in Zermatt, Switzerland. Probably one of the best treks in Europe.

Tour Du Mont Blanc (TMB) – France, Italy, Switzerland

The most famous of the long distance hiking trails in Europe! This stunning trek in the Alps of France, Italy, and Switzerland takes around 10-12 days to cover a circuit of 106 miles (170 km), with a height gain and loss of approximately 32,808 feet (10,000 m). The trail itself is well-marked and well-traveled. You will loop around the highest peak in Europe, the Mont Blanc (elev. 15,771 feet / 4,807 m), covering rocky peaks and flower-hewn valleys along the way.

The trek can be completed clockwise or counter-clockwise, with the latter starting from Les Houches being the most popular due to the perspective from the mountain passes. The best time to tackle the TMB is from the end of June to the end of October; the exact dates will vary depending on the snowfall from the previous season and in the current season. Summertime yields the highest traffic, especially around late August during The Ultra Trail Marathon, so be prepared to book your accommodation well in advance or travel outside of the Marathon timeframe.

France – Tour du Mont Blanc / Photo Credit: Expedition Wildlife

There are huts and B&Bs along the TMB; camping is technically forbidden. Be sure to make reservations and plan out your trip ahead of time. Accommodations along the route will offer half-board, include a bed, dinner, and breakfast, and some will pack a lunch for you at an extra cost. Most accommodations close down outside of the main hiking season.

You are not required to have a guide for the trail. However, having Cicerone’s “Trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc” or another detailed guide or map will be very helpful in your planning and on the trail. Plan for around 1,200US$ (1,000€) for the trek, including half-board accommodation and lunches. For 580US$ (500€) more, you can stay at more upscale accommodations and acquire luggage transfers between towns.

By Christa from  Expedition Wildlife

Corsica GR20

The 112 miles (180 km) trek is considered by many to be the most beautiful as well as one of the most difficult Europe long distance trails. The trail takes you from the north to the south of the Mediterranean island through rugged mountains. Most trekkers take 15 days and while it’s possible to stay in mountain huts – refuges , bringing your tent in summer is recommended given the trail’s popularity which makes it one of the most famous hiking trails in France .

Pyr én ées GR10

The 538 miles (865 km) trek is broken into smaller sections that each take about 12 days on average. The difficult trek passes through stunning scenery, and you can rest in mountain huts or camp along the trail. Probably one of the top European long distance trails as the route will take you from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Sea.

Trekking Resources for France

• Trekking Chamonix to Zermatt: The Classic Walker’s Haute Route
• Trekking The GR5 Trail: Through the French Alps from Lake Geneva to Nice 
• The Tour of Mont Blanc: Complete two-way trekking guide
• The GR20 Corsica: Complete Guide to the High-Level Route
• The GR11 Trail: Through the Spanish Pyrenees
• Trip Planning: France Travel Guide
• English-French Phrasebook

Hiking in Germany

When thinking about long trails in Europe, Germany might not come first to mind. But hiking in Germany will take you for awesome strolls through villages, rolling hills, and forests, sometimes along rivers, others to high castles. In any case, these are enjoyable, and you can always find a place to rest and treat yourselves to good food and a cold drink.

Black Forest Westweg 

The 177 miles (285 km) route goes through villages, meadows, and of course a walk in the Black Forest. Stay in campsites or guesthouses.

Bavarian Alps

The area includes some of the best hikes in Germany. From the 2-day climb to Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak at 9,718 feet (2,962 m), to the Eagle’s Nest, Hitler’s infamous retreat in the mountain, the Alpine landscape offers plenty of long-distance paths and opportunities for great trekking in Germany.

Germany Hiking Resources

• Walking in the Bavarian Alps: 70 Mountain Walks and Treks in Southern Germany
• Hiking in the Black Forest
• Trip Planning: Germany Travel Guide
• Carry an English-German Phrasebook

Hiking in Greece

Trips to Greece usually include cruising the Cyclades, relaxing in Santorini, and enjoying tasty Greek food. However, Greece is also a good place for one of these long-distance hiking trails Europe has.

Vikos Gorge

Some of the best trekking I’ve ever done in Europe was in the Vikos Gorge in Northern Greece.

Situated in the North Pindus Mountains, the Vikos Gorge is one of the biggest in the world and a stunning landscape to explore by foot. There are long hiking trails  everywhere, so you aren’t short of potential walks to do. It’s a great place to hike alone or with a travel buddy.

The area is called the Zagori and encompasses 44 villages- together known as the Zagorohoria. The gorge itself is only 8 miles (12 km) long, but hiking overnight here allows you to explore the villages and surrounding area along the way.

Greece – Vikos Gorge / Photo Credit: Coddiwomp

The main gorge stretch is from the village of Vikos to that of Monodendri, or vice versa. Beginning from Vikos, descend into the gorge. From here it’s a straightforward hike through the canyon suitable for most levels. The only exertion is the ascent to Monodendri, which is a lung-busting climb. The beautiful village at the top makes it worth the effort though!

In general, this is a straightforward hike, and you can easily do it in one day- taking roughly 4.5hours walking non-stop. But don’t rush it! Staying overnight in Monodendri allows you to experience more of the hiking in the area in the ensuing days. In such a beautiful place, this is highly recommended!

For broader exploration, it can be handy to have a map. The main routes are all well signposted though. Head to Vikos in Spring or Summer for the best walking weather.

By Danny from Coddiwomp  

Mount Olympus

Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece. Explore during a 3-day trek and see why the mountain was so important in Ancient Greek Mythology. The perfect way to mix history with one of the most iconic long hiking trails Europe has.

Crete White Mountains

Hiking in Crete takes you on a trek in the White Mountains, passing by the coastline and fishing villages.

Hiking Resources for Greece

• Trekking in the Peloponnese and Pindos Way
• Corfu Trekking Trails and Guide
• Waterproof hiking map of Mt. Olympus
• Hiking in Crete Map and Trails
• Trip Planning: Greece Travel Guide
• Bring a Greek-English Phrasebook

Hiking in Iceland

Laugavegur trail.

The 34 miles (54 km) trail from Landmannalaugar to Thorsmorkvariety is another epic trek,  passing by hot springs and glaciers. Laugavegur takes about four days, but you can also add two days if you combine the Fimmvörðuháls trail. The season runs from mid-June until mid-September, and several huts are available along the trail.

Iceland Hiking Resources

• Trekking the Arctic Circle Trail
• The best hiking trails between Landmannalaugar and Skógar
• Iceland Hiking Map: Landmannalaugar, Laugavegur, Þórsmörk & Fimmvörðuháls
• Trip Planning: Iceland Travel Guide
• Take an Iceland Phrasebook

Hiking in Ireland

The 100 miles (162 km) trek goes through the stunning landscape of the County Kerry, including coastal plains, lakes, and mountains. One of the most famous walks in Ireland for sure.

Ireland Hiking Resources

• Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way
• Walking Guide to Dingle Way
• Trip Planning: Ireland Travel Guide 

Hiking in Italy

Via degli abati.

I’ve just returned from hiking the  Via degli Abati , a long-distance trek in the Emilia-Romagna Apennines, in the north of Italy. The Via degli Abati is 74 miles (120 km) long and can be hiked in about five days – however, please be aware that it’s gorgeous but very tough, with 18,000 feet (5,500) meters positive altitude difference over the course of the five days.

Via degli Abati means Abbots Way, as the trail follows the footsteps of medieval monks who walked to Rome to visit the Pope, from their monasteries in the mountains. The trail starts in Bobbio, once home to a large monastery, and ends in Pontremoli, where it connects with the famous Via Francigena that can be followed all the way to Rome. For this reason, the Via degli Abati is often known as the Francigena’s ‘mountain variant’ – the terrain it crosses is mainly mountainous, but since these are the Apennines and not the Italian Alps, it only reaches a maximum altitude of about 4,300 feet (1,300 meters).

Italy – Via degli Abati / Photo Credit: The Crowded Planet

The trail is well signposted and can easily be hiked without a guide, but we don’t recommend it to solo hikers as it’s offbeat and there is no phone signal most of the way. If you fall and get hurt, it may be days before somebody finds you.

You don’t need to carry camping equipment as each stage ends in a village, with available accommodation in hotels and B&B, also offering meals. We spent about 35-60US$ (30-50€) per person per day, depending on hotels – however, this figure can be lower if you opt to camp and pitch your tent in secluded locations along the trail. We loved the Via degli Abati and can’t recommend it highly enough – we were truly alone with nature, from the beginning to the end.

Margherita from The Crowded Planet | Facebook | Instagram  

Alta Via Uno

Also known as the Dolomite High Route 1 or Alta Via 1, the 10-day 93 miles (150 km) trek takes you through the Eastern Dolomites. Dolomites hiking should be a highlight of any walks in Italy.

Norway hiking trails extend far and through incredible scenery. Coastal hikes, Arctic wilderness, remote places – take your pick!

Hardangervidda Trek

A tough 12-day trek taking you on a traverse, you can stay in huts or camp in remote areas.

Trolltunga Hike

One of the best hikes in Norway, the challenging trail covers 16 miles (27 km) long and about 3,000 feet (900 meters) ascent. Most trekkers take 10 hours to reach the top, and many people camp around, which makes a good overnight trek to one of the most spectacular scenic cliffs in Norway.

Arctic Knivskjellodden 

The 11 miles (18 km) trail ends in North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe. While the distance is relatively short, the Arctic scenery is what makes this trail special. Camp in Knivskjellodden to enjoy a night in the Arctic!

Hiking in Portugal

Portuguese camino.

The Camino de Santiago is a famous pilgrimage route in Spain, but not many know that there are several Camino routes that start in different parts of Spain, France, and Portugal. One of the ways that is becoming more and more popular is the Portuguese Camino . You can start it in Lisbon to walk the full Portuguese  Camino, a distance of 398 miles (640 km). The majority of pilgrims, however, start in Porto, walking 150 miles (240 km) to Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Spain. The trail is marked with yellow arrows and shells – the traditional marking that is used for the Caminos de Santiago. The route goes through major cities, past rural areas of Portugal and Spain, sometimes along the coast, and through a beautiful Galician forest.

Portugal – Camino Portuguese / Photo Credit: Stingy Nomads

The Caminos have proper infrastructure for pilgrims, unique hostels – called albergues , and many restaurants and cafes on the way. There is no need to carry a tent or camping mattress, only a sleeping bag – every night your sleep in an albergue where you get a bed. The best seasons to walk this Camino is May – June or September – October when it’s warm but not too hot, with not much rain, and fewer people. July and August are the peak season for Camino Portugues – it gets very hot and dry, plus there are many pilgrims on the route.

The Camino is an excellent way to budget travel through Portugal and Spain; accommodation for pilgrims costs between 7-11US$ (6-10€) per person, most albergues have a kitchen, pilgrims can make their food, and transportation costs nothing (you walk every day). It is quite tough to walk one of these long-distance trails Europe offers in one go, but the Camino is a fantastic experience; you meet people of different ages from all over the world, make new friends and learn new things.

By Campbell & Alya from Stingy Nomads  |  Facebook  |  Instagram

Rota Vicentina

Rota Vicentina is a not-so-mainstream hiking trail that stretches along Portugal’s South West coast, next to the Atlantic Ocean, between beautiful cliffs, stunning beaches, and wildflower fields.

It is almost 250 miles (400 km) long, and there are two main routes and 8 round trails showcasing diverse scenery. At 143 miles (230 km) and 12 stages through historical towns and forests, it can be done by bike or, slower and better, on foot.

Portugal – Fisherman in Rota Vicentina / Photo Credit: A World to Travel

On the other hand, the ‘Fishermen’s Trail’ goes along the coast for 74 miles (120 km) between Porto Covo, a tiny settlement in the  stunning Alentejo region  worth visiting on its own, and Odeceixe, and it uses paths that give access to fishing spots and sandy beaches. This second one is more demanding than the other, having four stages and five different itineraries. The best season to walk both is Spring or Autumn, with milder temperatures than those of Summer, when it is usually way too hot to walk.

It is possible to do this trail on a budget, staying in campings and guest houses or spending as much as you want as the area has some mind-blowing properties for rent, hotels, and villas. No guide or special permit is needed to complete it although having one helps to get the most out of it. Last but not least, a word of caution: it is forbidden to camp freely – or park an RV – outside the designated spaces and official campings. Especially in the coastal path, a protected area, fines can be high and happen overnight.

By Inma from  A World to Travel  |  Instagram  |  Facebook

Mălăiești Hut Trek

Perhaps unknown to a lot of travelers, Romania is filled with some fantastic mountain ranges that cover impressive views and also treks. From short one-day hikes to multiple days treks, they are suitable for everybody and all seasons. However, one of the most famous ones is the trek leading to the Mălăiești Hut.

Nestled in the Bucegi Mountains, in perhaps one of the most picturesque locations, the hut is a fabulous two-day trek starting from the Gura Diham Hut in Bușteni, the famous mountain resort. However, there are multiple possible routes for reaching the hut; it depends on how much time you have. The one presented here is the most common one, and it will take you around 5 hours to reach the hut from the starting point.

Romania – Malaiesti Hut Trek / Photo Credit: Our World to Wander

Starting from Gura Diham Hut, at an altitude of 3,240 feet (987 m), you have to follow the red stripe sign which, after Poiana Izvoarelor and Șaua Pichetu Roșu, transforms into a red triangle. You thus follow the red triangle all the way to Mălăiești Hut at an altitude of approximately 5,640 feet (1,720 m). To spend the night there, be careful to book in advance as the beds are almost sold out every weekend. And it is pretty challenging and not recommended to return the same day

For the next day, after a pleasant and well-deserved sleep, you can follow the route called Brâna Caprelor where you have high chances of meeting some mountain goats, and head to Omu Peak, following the blue stripe sign (around 2 hours). From there, you can start your descent on the beautiful Valea Cerbului trail all the way to Gura Diham (4-5 hours).

This trek is a moderate to difficult one and should be avoided during winter. The best season for hiking in Romania is in summer. Regarding prices, expect to pay around 10US$ for your night in the hut. But this is a truly rewarding trek with fantastic views.

By Andra from Our World to Wander | Facebook | Pinterest

Transylvanian Alps Trail

Another fine example of the Carpathians, as you explore the Făgăraş Mountains, Romania’s highest range . 

Retezat Mountains

Explore the Carpathian mountains from caves to high peaks and glaciers.

Scotland Trekking

West highland way.

The West Highland Way is a 96-mile (155-km) multiday trek that starts in Milngavie near Glasgow and finishes in Fort William. The terrain is varied, and although it does include climbs like Conic Hill and the Devil’s Staircase as well as periods of scrambling, it is mainly flat overall.

Most people complete the West Highland Way in 6-7 days. It’s possible to do it in less, and there’s even a long-distance marathon where people complete it in around 16 hours, but 6-7 days is the most common and most comfortable amount of time to give yourself.

Scotland – West Highland Way / Photo Credit: This Travel Guide

Along the way you can either camp or stay in guesthouses and hostels, depending on how comfortable you want to take it. Several companies will transfer your luggage from guesthouses to guesthouses and, coincidentally (or not), there’s usually a pub around the halfway mark each day. You can make this a very easy-going and comfortable trek if you want to.

The best time to walk the West Highland Way is probably April or May, but you can walk it any time of the year mostly. Spring and autumn are generally the nicest times to do it, though.

Costs vary from person to person: some like to keep it cheap while others want their modern comforts. There is no permit, and the primary budget items are transportation, accommodation, food and drink, and luggage transfer, if you opt for that.

Expect to pay around 90US$ (£70) per night for accommodation, around 20-40US$ (£15-30) per day per person for food and drink, and 40-50US$ (£30-40) per person for luggage transfer. Excluding the transportation costs at the beginning and end of the trip, this works out at around 900US$ (£690) per couple. This is probably the more luxurious end of the scale, and you can cut costs by camping, staying in bothies, or finding cheaper accommodation, not eating out twice a day, and not getting luggage transfers.

Whatever way you decide to do it, this trek will go down as one of your most memorable trips ever.

Transverzala Kamnik-Savinja Trail

Part of the Slovenian Mountain Trail, the Kamnik-Savinja Trail lets you explore the Slovenian Alps, taking you to high passes, glaciers, and thick forests. Allow 3-4 days to complete, staying in huts and guesthouses.

El Camino de Santiago de Compostela

No presentation is needed on one of the world’s most famous long-distance walks Europe has. Whether you are on a spiritual quest or hitching to hit the trail, Santiago de Compostela is one of the most famous Spain hiking trails, taking you from Roncesvalles in Spain to Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port in France. The reverse route is of course possible. The entire route is 500 miles (800 km) long and is divided into about 8 sections, each taking about 10 days.

Carros de Foc

The Pyrenees Mountain chain, the natural border between Spain and France has some of the most fascinating mountain landscapes on the European continent. The Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park is possibly the most beautiful part of the Pyrenees, and this is where you can do one of the best multiday hikes in Europe, the Carros de Foc.

Spain – Carros de Foc / Photo Credit: Surfing the Planet

Carros de Foc means Chariots of Fire, and not much is known about the origin of the name of this route created by hikers in 1987. What it’s sure that this circular hike that takes 5 to 7 days to complete goes through the most beautiful parts of the Aigüestortes National Park. There are ten refuge houses in the circuit that provide accommodation for hikers during the 35 miles (56 km), which might not seem a lot at first, but you will have to climb more than 29,600 feet (9,000 meters) in total and will need to overcome some of the key mountain passes in the region. The main feature of this part of the Pyrenees is a large number of alpine lakes of all kinds of colors and the views from the mountain passes are utterly unforgettable.

No guide or permit is required to hike this trail, and neither any entrance fee has to be paid in the national park. The average price of staying in the mountain refuges is about 35US$ (30€) per night. Accommodation with breakfast is provided in large dorm rooms, whereas dinner costs around 25US$ (20€) per person.

By Gábor from  Surfing the Planet | Facebook | Twitter

Sweden Hiking

Kungsleden trail.

The famous The Kings Trail, or Kungsleden as it is locally known, is one of the long-distance hikes Europe offers, at about 270 miles (440 km) long and traversing the  Vindelfjällens Nature Reserve.  Several entry points allow trekkers to either hike a short part if they don’t want to trek the whole distance. Mountain huts are available along the way, but bring your tent if you feel you need shorter breaks. In winter, the trail becomes a popular ski destination as well.

By James from This Travel Guide

High Tatra Mountains

The High Tatra Mountains, which are part of the Carpathian mountains, separate Slovakia and Poland. You can trek five days from hut to hut, the perfect option for a great Slovakia hiking adventure.

Switzerland Hiking

The Alps in Switzerland are another trekking paradise and home to some of the best long distance trails in Europe. Right there, you can find hiking trips for a lifetime and some of the finest hut-to-hut hiking Europe can provide.

Tectonic Arena Sardona

The Sardona UNESCO world heritage path starts in Flims, Switzerland. It is a great hike to do in the spring and summertime. The hike is two days long, and you can go without a guide. You can go all the way from Flims walking it will take you a bit longer, or you can take two chairlifts bringing you to Naraus from where you want to start your trek .

Switzerland – Sardona Path / Photo Credit: Les Berlinettes

On the first day, you walk a good 6 hours through the beautiful landscape of Switzerland before arriving at Pass dil Segnas at 8,620 feet (2,627 meters). The hike is not too strenuous. Only the last part is a bit more tricky as there is still snow and ice in summer so better have good hiking shoes.

From there you can see clearly in the mountains in front of you where the continents of Africa and Europe collided millions of years ago: the Swiss Tectonic Arena Sardona, a UNESCO heritage site. There you can spend the night at the Segnespass, the only mountain Lodge in the area that is open from 30th of June until 30th of July. One night with breakfast will cost you around 60US$ (50€). If you wish to camp, it is possible also. You can bring your gear and pitch your tent on the way. Not directly on the summit but a little bit before.

On the second day, you will go back down for around 6 hours again, taking another path called „Trutg di Flem“ with waterfalls, gorges, and bridges along the way.

By Amandine from Les Berlinettes  

Dents-du-Midi 

This difficult 3-day trek leads you to the western side of Switzerland, with cabin huts along the route.

Tour des Combins 

Among the long-distance trails Europe provides, the 6-day takes you to the Combin massif, one of the highest of the Alps. Start from the Great St Bernard Pass, and trek along high peaks and valleys at the Italian-Swiss border.

Bernina-Trek

A long-distance trek through the Bernina area and recommended for experienced trekkers only.

Jura Crest Trail (Route 5)

A moderately difficult long-distance hike, this one of 190 miles (310 km) over 15 days, the Jura Crest Trail will make you discover Swiss Jura heights and enjoy sweeping views of the Alps, the Black Forest, and the Vosges.

This list of destinations for trekking in Europe is by far complete, and we will be adding more trekking and trail options. So if we missed your preferred European hiking trails, or if you know another top trail in Europe, please let us know!

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Patricia - Ze Wandering Frogs

Bonjour! I am Patricia Pagenel, the founder with Bruno Chartier of this adventure travel blog - Ze Wandering Frogs, where we share our travel tips and personal experiences from traveling in 50+ countries. We have been on a world trip since 2016, looking for exciting new adventures. Our work has been featured on Viator, National Geographic, Huffington Post, and ASEAN Tourism. Find out more about Ze Wandering Frogs in our About Us, our Portfolio, and Partners that worked with us. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube to explore the world with us and start planning your own itineraries.

March 6, 2022

Europe , France , Hiking & Trekking , Nature & Wilderness

Mountains , Trails

12 Comments

October 10, 2019 at 6:46 am

Nice to bump into your website. My name is Asen and I’m a hiker and a blogger from Bulgaria. Your list is super extensive and very useful. I recently did some urban hiking in Toronto Canada – Cedar Trail, Highland Creek Trail, and Bluffer’s Park. Really cool places. In Europe I’ve recently hiked in Cinque Terre, Italy. It was very hot but crazy exciting! 🙂 Keep up the great work and happy trails!

November 18, 2019 at 1:30 am

Glad you liked our article and found it useful! So many trails in Europe! I can imagine Cinque Terre be hot, especially in summer. What your next hiking trip?

May 15, 2019 at 6:27 am

Nice post! We are planning our next summer’s hike and we were thinking about Stubai High Trail. We were just wondering if climbing equipments are necessary there?

Thanks in beforehand 🙂

Greetings from Finland

May 17, 2019 at 1:08 am

Hi Vilma, we did not trek the Stubai High Trail ourselves but from what I read as we are looking at hiking it, climbing gear is not necessary. Some people run it with lightweight bags, others go in low hiking shoes. Of course, it depends on the season, and on the snowpack of the past winter. Talking to the people of the huts might give you a better view of how this year might look like. Safe hiking!

April 12, 2019 at 7:40 am

Very nice blog.

April 16, 2019 at 11:25 pm

Thank you, glad you like it!

March 13, 2019 at 4:58 am

This is fun to do with your friends. RV is also good to have to get into this place if you want to spend few nights there.

March 22, 2019 at 10:53 am

RVs are indeed a good option for traveling to some remote places. We used to have our own as well when we were kiteboarding in the San Francisco Bay Area – we loved it!

October 2, 2018 at 1:44 pm

These are amazing hiking trails. I love hiking especial mountainous areas. From the list, I really like the Switzerland – Sardona Path. It looks stunning and I would love to trek it one day. Thanks for sharing. I have got some added to the bucket list.

October 23, 2018 at 9:41 pm

Think you can’t go wrong with any hike in Switzerland! But agree, some appear more stunning than others if that’s possible!

September 27, 2018 at 2:31 am

i really love hiking.i hope i will visit all these places at least once in life.

October 12, 2018 at 1:59 am

Same here! Happy hiking ?

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22 Epic Long-Distance Hiking Trails Around the World

There are dozens of long-distance trails throughout the world waiting for you to discover. We profile 22 of these hidden gems in epic locations such as Bhutan and Argentina. All trails appearing on this are at least 200 miles long.

1. E1 European Long-Distance Path

The E1 European Long-Distance Path - abbreviated as E1 Path - travels through seven European countries. 

• Countries: Norway, Finland, Sweden, Denmark, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy
• Distance: 4,960 miles (7,980 km)
• Time to complete: up to 12 months
• Elevation change: Unknown
• Best time to visit: May to September

The E1 is one of 12 European long distance walking paths that is maintained by the European Ramblers Association. The path is relatively new - it was constructed in 2011 and is continuing to be expanded. In 2018, the southern terminus was extended to Sicily in Italy.

Most people hike the path in sections. To date, there are no documented full-length thru-hikes. Both the European Ramblers Association and the Hiking Europe website contain additional details about the trail.

A strenuous hike along the Pyrenees that links the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean Sea.

• Countries: France
• Distance: 866km (538mi)
• Time to complete: 2 months
• Elevation change: 48,000m (157,000ft) elevation gain
• Best time to visit: May to June or August to September

Starting at the Atlantic ocean, the GR10 follows the backbone of the Pyrenees mountain range along the French-Spanish border to the Mediterranean Sea. Hikers will experience everything from lush green meadows, dense forests and snow-covered mountain peaks.

Although the trail is well marked, it is wild and remote. Only experienced hikers should consider taking on the steep climbs of this rugged, mountainous terrain.   Mountain IQ   is an excellent resource for information on the GR10.

3. North-To-South Traverse

Pick your path as you travel from one end of Iceland to the other.

• Countries: Iceland
• Distance: Approximately 550 km (340 mi)
• Time to complete: 3 to 4 weeks
• Best time to visit: June to July

Iceland is known for its gorgeous, varied landscape that includes volcanoes, hot springs, deserts, lush green valleys, and snowy mountaintops. The North to South traverse is not a dedicated hiking trail but a cross country trek through a loose collection of primitive roads, unmarked paths, and hiking trails.

Part of this north to south trek takes you through the Fjallabak Nature Reserve and the Laugavegur trail, which is considered to be among the most beautiful hiking trails in the world. The route is mostly flat, but be prepared for high winds and unpredictable weather in Iceland's mostly treeless landscape.

You can learn more about the North-South traverse from online trail journals by those who have completed this trek (e.g.  Tucker Prescott   or Jonathan Ley ).

4. Grand Italian Trail (Sentiero Italia)

• Countries: Italy
• Distance: Approximately 6166 km (3831 mi)
• Best time to visit: March to November

Want to see Italy on foot? Then check out the national trail of Italy, the Grand Italian Trail (Sentiero Italia). It links several smaller footpaths allowing a hiker to cross the Alps while walking the entire length of the country from Trieste to Sardinia. You'll cross snow-capped mountains, visit ancient ruins and travel through vineyards and valleys.

Some of the trails are marked, much of it is not, and you'll need an existing GPS track to keep on the right path. If 6,000K is too long for a single thru-hike, not a problem. The Grand Italian Trail is divided into 368 sections so you can hike it one piece at a time.

You can find a map and GPS data for the Grand Italian Trail at  Traildino .

5. Via Alpina (red trail)

Immerse yourself into the Alpine lifestyle by hiking along the backbone of the Alps.

• Countries: Italy, Slovenia, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, France and Monaco.
• Distance: 2600km (1615mi)
• Time to complete: 4 to 5 months
• Elevation change: 138km (86 miles)
• Best time to visit: June till October

Created by both private and public groups in eight alpine countries, the Via Alpina is a network of five international long-distance hiking trails. The longest trail is the Red trail (2600km) which starts in Trieste, Italy and goes all the way to Monaco. The trail network was chosen not for its difficulty, but its cultural and historical significance.

You won't need ice axes, ropes or crampons to travel this route through the Alps, just time and a willingness to be immersed in the Alpine lifestyle. It's a welcoming trail with ample small towns eager to provide a warm bed and hot food to weary travelers.

Visit the Via Alpina website trip planning and trail information. 

6. Rota Vicentina

Walk the historical footpaths and dirt roads used by travelers and locals for centuries.

• Countries: Portugal
• Distance: 450km (280mi)
• Time to complete: up to one month
• Best time to visit: September to June

The Rota Vicentina is a network of trails in southwest Portugal that extends from Santiago do Cacém to the Cape of São Vicente. It is comprised of two main long-distance trails (Historical Way and Fisherman's Trail) and eight circular routes for those who can't spend as much time on the trail.

Using existing trails and dirt roads, the Rota Vicentina takes you into the mountainous forest, along the coast and through the small villages that dot the region. Besides the local cuisine, the highlight of the Rota Vicentina is the coastal cliffs that provide stunning views of the Atlantic ocean. These cliffs are found on the FIsherman’s Trail section which follows the historic trails used by fisherman who traveled daily from their villages to the ocean to fish.

Visit the Rota Vicentina website for more information.

7. Via Dinarica

Trek the Western Balkans in a trail deemed one of the best in Europe by National Geographic.

• Countries: Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Kosovo, and Albania
• Distance: 2,000km (1,054mi)
• Time to complete: 3 to 4 months
• Elevation change: 51,815m
• Best time to visit: June to September

Decades of conflict made the Balkans a problematic region to explore, but this isolation is quickly disappearing. The Balkans is quickly becoming a hub for eco-tourism thanks in part to the Via Dinarica, deemed to be one of the best hiking trails in Europe.

The primary path is the 1260km White trail, which is marked and has been thru-hiked numerous times since the idea for the trail was first conceived in 2010. The trail connects remote villages along the sharp peaks of the Dinaric Alps and Shar mountain ranges and follows former military routes, ancient trading routes, and shepherding paths.

The Via Dinarica website has a lot of information about the trail, places to stay and things to say when on the trail. 

8. Camino De Santiago

Take a spiritual journey following the path the pilgrims walked to the shrine of Saint James.

• Countries: France, Spain, Portugal depending on the route
• Distance: Varies by route, the Camino Frances is 780km (500 miles)
• Time to complete: 3 weeks
• Best time to visit: April through September

The Camino De Santiago, known as the Way of Saint James, was one of the essential pilgrimages for Christians in the Middle Ages. The route ends at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela where it is believed that the remains of Saint James are buried. The journey itself is made of several smaller pilgrimage routes all of which end at Santiago.

The most popular course is Camino Frances, which starts at Biarritz, France and travels 500 miles to Santiago, Spain. The route is relatively flat with people walking up to 18km to 25km per day.

The reason why people walk the Camino De Santiago varies, but many use it as a spiritual journey to fellowship with other pilgrims and stop at the many churches along the route. People use bikes, horses and even donkeys to travel the path.

There are several good books about the pilgrimage, including the popular Pilgrim's Guide from John Brierley.

9. Kungsleden

Kungsleden, also known as the King's Trail, is Sweden's longest hiking trail.

• Countries: Sweden
• Distance: 440 km (270 mi) and three to four weeks
• Elevation change: minimum 2500m

Kungsleden is Sweden's longest hiking trail which welcomes hikers in the summer and skiers in the winter. First used in 1928 by the Swedish Tourist Association, the trail connects Abisko in the north and Hemavan in the south. The well-marked route takes you through the scenic Swedish Lapland mountains which include high alpine peaks, old-growth coniferous forests, and lakes, lots of them. It also passes through the Vindelfjällen Nature Reserve, one of the largest protected areas in Europe.

There are huts along the route, about a day apart, that are available without reservation for a small fee. The accommodations are simple - there are bunks and a place to cook food, but there is no electricity or running water. Some huts even sell food and other supplies.

Visit the Swedish Lapland website , the Swedish Tourist Association  or Mountain IQ for more information.

10. Wales Coast Path

The world's first footpath that follows the entire coastline of a country.

• Countries: Wales
• Distance: 1,440km (870mi) and two to three months
• Time to complete: 2 to 3 months
• Best time to visit: April to September

Developed by the Welsh government along with other local authorities and national parks, the Welsh Coastal path opened in 2012. It begins at the city of Chester in the north and ends at the town of Chepstow in the south. Approximately 20% of the trail follows local roads away from the coast due to landowners who won't allow the path to cross their coastal property.

Most people hike the path in sections, taking time to savor the stunning ocean views, impressive cliffs, and historical sites. Unlike most trails where you encounter woodland animals, the Wales Coast Path allows you to experience the unique flora and fauna found in coastal locations such as beaches, dunes, estuaries, and salt marshes.

Details on the Wales Coast Path can be found on the trail's official website .

11. Jordan Trail

Learn about the culture and history of Jordan as you walk across the country.

• Countries: Jordan
• Distance: 650 km (400 mi)
• Time to complete: 4 to 6 weeks
• Best time to visit: February to April

People have been traveling Jordan by foot even before the first centuries B.C when people came to the country for commerce and trade. Now, these same roads are home to the Joran Trail which traverses 52 towns and villages as it winds its way from Um Qais in the North to the Aqaba in the south.

The Jordan trail was first conceived in the 1990s, but it wasn't until the Jordan Trail Association was formed in 1995 that the path was developed in earnest. Now it is being heralded as one of the best tourist destinations by National Geographic and others. The Jordan Trail Association website is the definitive source for trail maps, hiking guides, and current reroutes.

12. Tokai Nature Trail

Japan's first long-distance trail winds leisurely from Tokyo to Osaka.

• Countries: Japan
• Distance: 1050km (652mi)
• Time to complete: 6 to 8 weeks
• Elevation change: 38,000m
• Best time to visit: April to June

More a nature walk than a remote wilderness hiking trail, the Tokai Nature Trail connects Tokyo's Meiji no Mori Takao Quasi-National Park with the Meiji no Mori Mino Quasi-National Park in Osaka. The trail climbs the gentle slopes of the Hokusetu Mountain Range and passes through cultural and historical sites.

The trail, suitable for seasoned hikers as well as families, was deliberately chosen to take people away from highly-traveled tourist locations and bring them into the heart of Japan. Check out the Tokai Walk website and Nomadic Tom’s Rough Guide for further details.

13. Snowman Trek

One of the toughest treks in the Himalayas crossing 11 high passes in one of the highest mountain ranges in the world.

• Countries: Bhutan
• Distance: 200 miles
• Time to complete: 4 weeks
• Elevation change: 48,000 feet elevation gain
• Best time to visit: May and Late September to October

Get a taste of Everest and the Himalayan mountains on this 200-mile hike through the country of Bhutan. The trek follows the backbone of the Himalayas along the northern border with Tibet. The trail climbs to 5000 meters providing scenic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

Not for the faint of heart, most thru-hikers make the traverse in a group as part of a professionally guided tour. The best way to find out more about the Snowman Trek is to visit guide websites which have itineraries, tour prices and more.

14. Transcaucasian Trail

The Transcaucasian Trail is early in its development eventually will provide a breath-taking hike across the Caucasus mountain range in Eurasia.

• Countries: Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.
• Distance: 3000km (1864mi proposed)
• Time to complete: 4 months

Still under development, the Transcaucasian Trail will be 3000km (1864 miles) in length when it is finally completed. The trail will follow the Greater and Lesser Caucasus mountains in Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan.

The motivation to create the path is dual in purpose - to help conserve land and showcase the natural beauty of the region. It will connect both existing and future national parks and will help to unify the sometimes tumultuous region.

To get a taste of the proposed trial, you can hike several hundred kilometers of trails in the national parks including Lagodekhi National Park, Borjomi National Park, and Dilijan National Park. To learn more about the Transcaucasian Trail and follow its progress, you can visit the Transcaucasian Trail website .

15. Great Himalaya Trail

Traverse some of the most beautiful and lofty mountain peaks in the world.

• Countries: Bhutan, India, Nepal, Pakistan, China
• Distance: 4,585km (2,800mi)
• Best time to visit: February to April or September to November

As its name implies, the Great Himalaya trail takes you through the heart of the Himalayas through Nepal, Bhutan, India, Pakistan, and Tibet. The trail itself is more of a concept and not a marked, maintained footpath.

You can choose to take the high route that traverses the mountains or a lower passage that travels below peaks on the footpaths between the mountain villages. Visit the Great Himalaya website or Himalayan adventure Labs for additional details on the logistics of attempting this challenging trail.

North America

16. bruce trail.

The Bruce Trail is Canada's oldest and longest marked hiking trail.

• Countries: Ontario, Canada
• Distance: 890 km (550 mi)
• Best time to visit: April to early November

First conceived in 1959, The Bruce Trail starts in Ontario, Canada just outside Niagara and runs over 500 miles to the end of Tobermory, Ontario. It travels through some of the most populated areas in the Provence, but that doesn't mean it's an urban walk. You’ll hike through quaint towns, traverse dense forests, stand at the edge of lakeside cliffs and marvel at pristine waterfalls.

The Bruce Trail is broken up into nine sections each of which has a subsidiary club. These clubs offer end-to-end hikes of their assigned segments. People who want to hike the entire trail in sections can join these individual guided, group hikes. The Bruce Trail Conservancy maintains the path and is the first place you should look for more information.

South America

17. transpanama trail.

Hike 700 miles across the length of Panama from Costa Rica to Columbia.

• Countries: Panama
• Distance: 1126km (700mi)

Connecting an existing network of hiking trails and remote roads, the TransPanama Trail covers the length of Panama from the border of Columbia to the border of Costa Rica. It traverses mountains, rainforests and the territories of some of Panama's indigenous people.

The western half of the trail opened in 2009 but funding dried up and the momentum to complete the trail lost its steam. In 2011, Panama resident Rick Morales decided to change all that and set out on the first ever thru-hike from Columbia to Costa Rica. Morales not only hiked the existing trail, but he also mapped the route for the eastern trail. You can read about Morales's first thru-hike on his website. A trail guide is also in the works.

18. Greater Patagonian Trail

The 1,300 mile Greater Patagonian Trail allows you to experience South America at its best.

• Countries: Argentina, Chile
• Distance: 1300 miles
• Elevation change: 58,900 m elevation gain, 59,200 m elevation loss
• Best time to visit: December to April

The Greater Patagonian Trail is the longest hiking trail in South America. First mapped in 2013 by Swiss explorer Jan Dudeck and Chilean hiker Meylin Ubilla, the GPT is an amalgam of unmarked hiking trails, horse trails, dirt roads, and rivers. The trail passes through the heart of the Andes into Southern Patagonia. Its route was chosen to reflect the beauty, culture and natural history of the area.

You can hike the entire distance or decide to pack raft down rivers, lakes, and fjords. Visit the GPT wikiexplora to learn more about this unique trail.

19. Drakensberg Grand Traverse

Experience the wild of the South African mountains.

• Countries: South Africa
• Distance: Up to 240km (150mi) and two to three weeks
• Time to complete: 2 to 3 weeks
• Elevation change: 10,000m
• Best time to visit: September to December (spring) and March to June (fall)

The Drakensberg Grand Traverse (DGT) starts at Sentinel Car Park and finishes at the Bushman’s Neck Border Post, but it isn't a marked hiking trail like the AT. Instead of following a predefined path, you are required to pass through eight checkpoints, some of which are mountain peaks, if you want to claim you completed the DGT. You can choose your route to these checkpoints, but most people straight line them as much as possible.

The terrain is not technical, but the steep ascents and need for strong navigational skills can test even the most experienced hikers. It is an authentic wilderness experience with only a few towns or facilities along the way.

The best sources of information on the trail can be found at the Hiking South Africa website and online journals .

20. Sir Samuel And Lady Florence Baker Historical Trail

Follow in the footsteps of Sir Samuel Baker and his wife, Lady Florence.

• Countries: Uganda, Sudan
• Distance: 850km (500mi) and two to three months
• Best time to visit: June to August and December to February

The Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker Trail has been hailed as one of the best hiking trails in the world, but civil war in the Sudan region has made it impossible to hike this section of the trail. The path was designed to follow the travels of Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker who explored the area in the 1860s and 1870s.

The trail begins in the Sudanese village of Gondokoro, which is located near the Sudan capital of Juba. It travels south to Baker's view overlooking Lake Albert and finally onto Murchison Falls on the Nile River.

Because of conflict in Sudan, the northern part of the trail is closed and not safe for hiking. The Ugandan section of the trail is open and safe for hiking. Information on the Baker Trail is sparse, but the Baker Trail website has additional information on the trail.

21. Bibbulmun Track

The walking-only Bibbulmun Track traverses the most beautiful state parks and scenic locations in southwestern Australia.

• Countries: Western Australia
• Distance: 623 miles
• Elevation change: 18,485 m elevation gain

The Bibbulmun Track starts outside Perth in the suburb of Kalamunda and travels to the coastal town of Albany. The trail can be broken down into 58 sections, each of which is a day hike or less. At the end of each section, there is a campsite with a shelter, pit toilet, and other amenities. Most of the trail passes through state forestlands, national parks, and other preserves. The track is well maintained, well traveled and well-marked with the yellow Waugal, a symbol for a dominant spirit of the native Noongar people.

The Bibbulmun Track website has all the details you need to know about Australia's long-distance trail.

22. Te Araroa

• Countries: New Zealand
• Distance: 3,000km (1,900mi)
• Time to complete: 3 to 6 months
• Best time to visit: September to April

One of the newer long distance hiking paths, the Te Araroa trail officially opened in 2011. Maori for ‘Long Pathway,’ the Te Araroa lets you experience the best New Zealand has to offer. You walk through lush forests, follow country roads and tackle challenging scree while soaking in some of the most beautiful scenery in the world which includes sandy beaches, lush rainforests, active volcanoes, and glacial lakes.

There is an official guidebook, but you'll have to rely on GPS and your navigation skills as you follow the sometimes marked trail. There are no permits, and no fees are required but the Te Araroa Trust that oversees the path asks for a donation of the Te Araroa Trust requests a donation of $500 per person for those hiking the full trail, $250 for those walking on a single island only, and lesser amounts for section hikers.

The Te Araroa Trust website has all the information you need to hike the trail.

About Kelly Hodgkins

About greenbelly.

After thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail, Chris Cage created Greenbelly to provide fast, filling and balanced meals to backpackers. Chris also wrote How to Hike the Appalachian Trail .

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The top 12 long-distance walks in the world

Updated on  11 December 2021

• Alpine Traverse Munich to Venice
• Dolomites Alta Via 1
• Tour du Mont Blanc
• Pembrokeshire Coast Path
• Te Araroa Trail
• Annapurna Circuit
• Snowman Trek
• Pacific Crest Trail
• Appalachian Trail
• Huella Andina Trail

Thru-hiking routes, long-distance trails, long-distance trekking – it goes by many names, and the variety of long-distance hiking routes available worldwide is even greater. Here, we’ve compiled twelve long-distance hiking classics – a bucket list that will last a lifetime.

Whether it’s traversing the European Alps or undertaking an epic trek along the Kungsleden Trail in Sweden’s Arctic Circle, walking a coastal path in Wales, or on a long-distance trail in Germany, staying overnight in comfortable hotels, or even taking a full six months to complete the famous Pacific Crest Trail in America with just a tent and backpack – taking time out and simply going hiking is an unforgettable outdoor experience.

The length and difficulty can vary greatly between routes. From a two-week hike in the Alps, to a South American project that spans several years, and everything in between. There’s something for everyone, depending on time constraints, fitness levels or experience. Here are a dozen long-distance trails in Europe and the rest of the World you should know about – or maybe you’ve already got plans to complete one of them soon, or even just one or two sections.

Further reading on thru hiking: –> The appeal of long-distance hiking –> Long-distance hiking trails: 14 insider tips –> First thru hike – tips from a pro –> Interview with a long-distance hiking expert –> Getting ready for a thru hike –> 10 stunning thru-hiking facts

1 Alpine Traverse Munich to Venice

It’s a dream for many, and a must for any ambitious mountain hiker – the long-distance hiking trail across the entire Alps to the Mediterranean. Even Ötzi was on his way across the main ridge of the Alps, later he was followed by mule drivers on winding trade routes. And Goethe set out more than 200 years ago to cross the great mountain range on his journey to Venice. This European long-distance trail, which is split into 30 day-stages, with numerous variations, is one of the best and most desirable routes in the Alps.

Some of the highlights on the route from Munich to the Adriatic include the imposing limestone cliffs of the Karwendel range, the Tuxer Alps with breathtaking views of glaciers, and the unusual rock formations of the Dolomites. Crossing the Alps on foot offers more than its fair share of unforgettable mountain panoramas.

The route leads along well-maintained, marked mountain trails. Should completing the whole long-distance trail be too much or too time-consuming for hikers, it can be split into several one-week sections or hiking stages. As Goethe said: “You have only been to a place, if you went there by foot”.

Tour Profile Alpine Traverse Munich to Venice

Data & terrain, skills & info, recommended footwear.

Countries: Germany, Austria, Italy Length: 550 km Vertical metres: 22,000 Stages: approx. 30 day-stages Duration: approx. 1 month Terrain: predominantly high-alpine terrain Suitable for: Hikers with a good level of fitness and mountaineering experience Accommodation: Mountain huts, guesthouses, hotels. Wild camping is not permitted, only emergency bivouacking.

Personal requirements: Alpine hiking experience, surefootedness, good fitness levels Navigation ability: Good map-reading skills. Good skills operating GPS device (optional) Info: muenchen-venezia.info Reading: Trekking Munich to Venice, Cicerone Press; Walking over the Alps, Munich Venice / The Cinema Film

Further reading: 5 alpine crossings for each type of hiker

2 Dolomites Alta Via 1

The classic long-distance trek in the Southern Alps is a great alternative to the Alpine Traverse and is much more than a multi-day thru hike. Lush green alpine meadows, crowned by spectacular castles of rock and cathedrals of stone – the Dolomites’ charm lies in contrast. This is where Cliffhanger was filmed. And it’s also where Luis Trenker invented the ‘Bergfilm’, or mountain film genre. The long-distance hike on the Dolomites Alta Via 1 is just as rich in scenic and cultural highlights. The trail has run through the heart of the eastern Dolomites for over 50 years.

It starts at Lago di Braies lake, part of the Dolomites UNESCO World Heritage Site, and film location of the popular German series ‘Die Bergpolizei’, featuring Terence Hill. Legendary mountains such as the Fanes Group, Cinque Torri and Tofana all feature along this long-distance trail, with countless options to branch off and take in a summit. Dream views across to the Marmolada Glacier are just as much a part of it, as are memorials and museums in honour of those who died on the mountain front during the First World War, which left its scar on more than just the mountains. Some sections require hikers to be very surefooted and have a good head for heights.

In addition to the Dolomites Alta Via 1, there are now nine further mountain ridgeway routes in the Dolomites, some requiring mountaineering skills. Find out more here .

Tour Profile Dolomites Alta Via 1

Country: Italy Length: 115 – 150 km Vertical metres: 10,000 – 13,000 Stages: 13 Duration: 1 ½ – 2 weeks Terrain: alpine and high-alpine terrain Suitable for: Mountain hikers with a good basic level of fitness and mountaineering experience Accommodation: Mountain huts, guesthouses, hotels. Wild camping is not permitted, only emergency bivouacking.

Personal requirements: Alpine hiking experience, surefootedness, good fitness levels: some rock climbing experience an advantage Navigation ability: signposted; Map and compass reading skills; GPS device (optional) Info: dolomitemountains.com Reading: Trekking in the Dolomites Alta Via 1 and Alta Via 2 with Alta Via 3 – 6 in outline, Cicerone Press; Walking in the Dolomites 25 multi-day routes in Italy’s Dolomites, Cicerone Press.

3 Tour du Mont Blanc

The Mont Blanc Massif – roof of the Alps and home of alpinism. The 170-kilometre-long, high-level, multi-day trek runs around the highest mountain in the Alps, with plenty of vertical metres thrown in. The 4,810-metre-high mountain attracts mountaineering fans from all over the World. But there are few better ways to admire the snowy white mass of rock and ice than on this panoramic circumnavigation around its base.

However wild and dangerous the seracs, granite walls and rocky outcrops of the Grandes Jorasses or the Gervasutti Pillar may be, the Tour du Mont Blanc is quite the opposite: on well-marked and well-maintained mountain paths through the three-country triangle of France, Italy and Switzerland.

You can choose to spend the night in mountain huts, guesthouses or hotels in the valleys – or even in a converted cowshed on an alpine pasture. The long-distance hike into the heart of the Western Alps ‘only’ takes a week and a half – but the spectacle and experience of it all will last a lifetime.

Tour Profile Tour du Mont Blanc

Countries: France, Switzerland, Italy Length: 170 km Vertical metres: 10,000 – 12,000 Stages: 10 Duration: 10 days Terrain: alpine and high-alpine terrain Suitable for: Mountain hikers with a good level of fitness and mountaineering experience Accommodation: Mountain huts, guesthouses, hotels. Wild camping is not permitted, only emergency bivouacking.

Personal requirements: Alpine hiking experience, surefootedness, good fitness levels Navigation ability: signposted; Map and compass reading skills; GPS device (optional) Info: autourdumontblanc.com Reading: Trekking the Tour of Mont Blanc, Cicerone Press; Tour du Mont Blanc: The most iconic long-distance, circular trail in the Alps, Vertebrate Publishing

4 Bohusleden

Endless forests and lakes as far as the eye can see, summer days when the sun doesn’t want to set and the rock in the Skagerrak archipelago warms up nicely. The Bohusleden long-distance walk is way more Swedish than even the longest trek through the aisles of your local Ikea branch. And yet, this hiking trail is so well conceived that it could well have been created by Scandinavian designers.

Overnight accommodation in simple huts for weather protection as well as marked drinking water sites are laid on for comfort-conscious long-distance hikers. The entire trail is well signposted with orange-coloured way markers. Losing your way is virtually impossible. But bringing along a map is still advisable. As is a tent, sleeping bag and stove. That’s because Sweden’s right to roam rule means that considered, respectful, low-impact overnight stays are permitted almost anywhere. So why not discover this Nordic adventure for yourself?

Tour Profile Bohusleden

Country: Sweden Length: 340 km Vertical metres: n/a Stages: 27 Duration: approx. 3-4 weeks Terrain: relatively flat, hilly Nordic woodland and lakes Suitable for: Hikers with some experience of thru hiking; no mountaineering experience necessary Accommodation: Wild camping (Everyman’s right: one night is permitted with respectful behaviour); simple, unserviced huts and overnighting sites

Personal requirements: Moderate level of fitness, suited to novice thru-hikers too Navigation ability: signposted; Map and compass reading skills; Info: bohusleden.se Reading: Vandra Bohusleden (Hiking the Bohusleden), Calazo Förlag (in Swedish)

5 Kungsleden

The Kungsleden Trail is a highly scenic Swedish delight. The most popular section is the northern portion between Abisko to the north and Hemavan to the south. The Kungsleden – or literally king’s trail – is one of the most famous long-distance hiking trails in Europe and lives up to its regal heritage. It’s even suited to novice long-distance hikers, as long as they’re relatively weatherproof. Even though this is the land of the midnight sun, sunshine is not a given through mid-summer. Strongs winds and horizontal rain are not at all uncommon. But at least there are no steep climbs on this trail.

If you intend to stay overnight in the huts along the trail, then you must book in advance. But for the genuine thru-hiking experience, a night under canvas is the way forward. And according to Sweden’s freedom to roam or everyman’s right, you can pitch your tent anywhere as long as it’s done with respect and consideration. If you make the most of the long days in the far North, the 440-kilometre-long north section is like a bargain of a long-distance hike for seasoned thru-hikers. So why not bolt on the somewhat less-frequented, more forested, 350-kilometre-long southern section as well?

Tour Profile Kungsleden

Country: Sweden Length: 790 (South section 350 km, North section 440 km) Vertical metres: North: 8,500; South: 6,500 Stages: North: 20 – 25, South: 17 Duration: North: approx. 3 – 4 weeks; South: approx. 2 ½ – 3 weeks Terrain: Nordic fells landscape with wide plains and high peaks Suitable for: Hikers with some experience of thru hiking and wild camping; no mountaineering experience necessary Accommodation: Wild camping (Everyman’s right: one night is permitted with respectful behaviour); simple, unserviced huts and overnighting sites; marked water sources

Personal requirements: Hikers with some experience of thru hiking and wild camping; no mountaineering experience necessary Navigation ability: Map reading skills; Trail is signposted however Info: visitsweden.com Reading: Trekking the Kungsleden, Cicerone Press; Plan & Go | Kungsleden: All you need to know to complete Sweden’s Royal Trail (Plan & Go Hiking)

6 Pembrokeshire Coast Path

It doesn’t have to be the highest mountains, the Alps, the Andes or the Himalayas. Long-distance hiking can also be done by the seaside. The 300-kilometre Pembrokeshire Coast Path on the west coast of Wales is one of the most stunning coastal trails in the world. Wild sea cliffs, endless beaches, dunes, rare seabirds, seals, dolphins – it has it all.

The route runs between Amroth in the south and St Dogmaels on Cardigan Bay in the north and is absolutely breathtaking. And if you thought that hiking along the coast would mean it’s flat, then think again. You’ll clock up a full 8,500 vertical metres on this long-distance trail. And breathing in all that healthy sea air as you go.

The southern part is more sandy, and in the north there are high, rugged cliffs. Stone buildings huddle against the rocks and picturesque villages exude the charm of times gone-by when little boats would set out every day in the bays here to catch fish in the choppy seas. It’s definitely one of the most beautiful long-distance hiking trails in Europe.

Tour Profile Pembrokeshire Coast Path

Country: Wales Length: 300 km Vertical metres: approx. 8,500 Stages: 10-15 Duration: 10-15 days Terrain: Varied coastal landscape with sandy bays and steep sea cliffs Suitable for: Long-distance hikers, walking enthusiasts, surf nomads and anyone with a soft spot for the sea. Accommodation: Campsites (very few), wild camping not permitted. Hostels, B&Bs or stylish manor houses

Personal requirements: Good stamina Navigation ability: Basic map reading skills Info: visitpembrokeshire.com ; visitwales.com Reading: Pembrokeshire Coast Path (National Trail Guides); Walking the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, Cicerone Press; Pembrokeshire Coast Path by Jim Manthorpe

7 Te Araroa Trail

Some long-distance hiking routes immerse hikers deep in nature and then spit them out, at what few restocking stations there are along the way, or where food can be stashed. Not so the Te Araroa Trail in New Zealand. On this long-distance walk at the other end of the world, you’ll get to know the locals, see the wildlife, and experience lush tropical forests, alpine-scale mountains, smouldering volcanoes, geysers and white sandy beaches. The idea is to really get to know the country and its people.

This 3,000-kilometre-long trail from Cape Reinga in the north to the southern tip of New Zealand is signposted and marked, but requires sound outdoor experience in parts and some improvisational skills. It includes well-known New Zealand hiking trails, and leads through areas that barely feature in standard hiking guides.

Tour Profile Te Araroa Trail

Country: New Zealand Length: 3,000 km Vertical metres: approx. 97,000 Stages: Whatever you choose Duration: 4-6 months Terrain: Highly varied: Beaches, high-alpine mountains, rainforest. Suitable for: Adventurous hikers, with a love of paradise-like landscapes and a desire to get to know the country and its people. Accommodation: Huts, campsites, hostels, hotels

Personal requirements: Some sections require extensive trekking experience and some mountaineering skills. Good level of fitness. Navigation ability: Comfortable using a map/compass/ GPS. Info: teararoa.org.nz Reading: Te Araroa – A Walking Guide to New Zealand’s Long Trail, Penguin Random House; Te Araroa : walking New Zealand’s 3000-kilometre trail by Mark Watson; A Walking Guide To New Zealand’s Long Trail: Te Araroa by Geoff Chapple

8 Annapurna Circuit

The Annapurna Circuit is considered one of the most impressive trekking trails in the world with the majestic snow-capped Himalayan peaks forming the backdrop throughout. The world-famous, and (depending on what time of year) highly popular trail that circumnavigates the 8,091-metre-high Annapurna Massif meanders through wide Himalayan valleys with breathtaking views.

From the start, this long-distance hiking trail of manageable length passes through nearly every type of climate. The highest point is Thorung La pass at 5,416 metres. Multiple overnight options and eateries along the way make logistics and luggage requirements easier to navigate. A permit is required to undertake the trail. You can do without a tent though. Making time for acclimatisation before you set off is advisable – to make the trail more enjoyable and prevent altitude sickness. Beginners can team up with one of the many commercial providers.

Tour Profile Annapurna Circuit

Country: Nepal Length: 230 km Vertical metres: 14,500 Stages: Whatever you choose Duration: 2-3 weeks Terrain: Himalayan valleys with varying vegetation and climatic zones, high-mountain terrain Suitable for: High-altitude hikers short on time, not for solitude-seeking hermits Accommodation: Teahouses lodges hostels

Personal requirements: Good level of fitness. Acclimatisation. Navigation ability: Good navigation skills. Info: welcomenepal.com Reading: Trekking the Annapurna Circuit, Himalayan Map House; Annapurna, 14 treks including the Annapurna Circuit and Sanctuary, Cicerone Press

9 Snowman Trek

Bhutan – Shangri-La – a kingdom hidden away in the Himalayas with a state mandate to achieve happiness as a national goal (Gross National Happiness – or GNH). But sometimes, that happiness is hard earned. On the Snowman Trek, hikers have to make their way across 13 mountain passes up to 5,400 metres high. The Snowman Trek is considered one of the toughest treks or long-distance trails in the world – and it is definitely one of the most captivating. Good stamina and acclimatisation are a matter of course. In return, you will be rewarded with unforgettable scenic beauty, interactions with inspirational people and wonderful solitude.

The trail is based on yak-herder routes and connects Bhutan’s high-alpine valleys. There are monasteries and heritage sites along the way, with glaciated six- and seven-thousand-metre peaks as the backdrop. You won’t find a perfect infrastructure with countless lodges like in Nepal. But you will find memories to last you a lifetime.

Tour Profile Snowman Trek

Country: Bhutan Length: 240 km Vertical metres: 12,000 Stages: 28 Duration: 4 weeks Terrain: High Himalayan valleys and passes Suitable for: Very fit, culturally interested adventure hikers and strong-minded individuals. Accommodation: Tent for most stages

Personal requirements: Excellent stamina, good acclimatisation. Navigation ability: Very good navigation skills, with map, compass, GPS Info: trekking-in-bhutan.com Reading: Der Snowman Trek in Bhutan: Trekkingabenteuer im Himalaya, Thorsten Hoyer, Conrad Stein Verlag (in German); Trekking in Bhutan 22 multi-day treks including the Lunana ‘Snowman’ Trek, Cicerone Press;

Further reading: Thru-hiking legend Thorsten Hoyer on the Snowman Trek in Bhutan

10 Pacific Crest Trail

The quintessential classic. It’s hard to find another long-distance trail that’s more legendary. For many thru hikers, it was and still is the first introduction to a life of tramping trails. Many of them not only found the wonders of nature and wilderness but also found their way back to themselves.

The varied 4,265-kilometre Pacific Crest Trail gained its fame largely through the book ‘Wild’ by Cheryl Strayed and film of the same name. In the movie, the main character is played by Reese Witherspoon. In the book, which has the subtitle ‘From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail’, Strayed describes how she, a wide-eyed thru-hiking novice, went through hell and back and found new inner poise on the trail following a turbulent phase of her life marred by heroin, unhealthy sexual exploits and divorce.

The well-marked route requires some outdoor skills but is also achievable for beginners. It runs through the states of California, Oregon and Washington – from the Mexican border on the Pacific through the mountain ranges of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade Mountains to the Canadian border.

It was a woman who came up with the idea for this long-distance hiking trail. Way back in 1926, Catherine Montgomery proposed a “high-altitude hiking trail across the peaks of the western mountains”. Since then, she’s known as the mother of the PCT.

Tour Profile Pacific Crest Trail

Country: USA Length: 4,265 km Vertical metres: 128,300 Stages: Whatever you choose Duration: Approx. 6 months Terrain: Largely mountainous, with some snow sections at some times of year Suitable for: Individualists looking for peace and solitude, but who are also happy to find company on the trail occasionally. Accommodation: Mostly tent. No huts.

Personal requirements: Very good stamina (develops automatically during the hike). Navigation ability: Very good navigation skills, with map, compass, GPS Info: pcta.org Reading: Trekking The Pacific Crest Trail, Cicerone Press; How to hike the Pacific Crest Trail, Lonely Planet;

Further reading: Sanna Wandtke’s account of the Pacific Crest Trail

11 Appalachian Trail

The Appalachian Trail is to the east of the United States what the Pacific Crest Trail is to the west. It crosses 14 states over a distance of 3,500 kilometres and is considered something like the forefather of long-distance hiking trails. It’s almost exactly 100 years since forest scientist and environmentalist Benton MacKaye started to create a network of trails through the Appalachians. Even though some of the peaks are as high as 2,000 metres – including sections of easy scrambling sections – the Appalachians resemble Europe’s lower mountain ranges, though in places much less populated of course.

Still, you won’t be completely alone on the trail. It is a very popular thru-hike route and was made famous by the film ‘Picnic with Bears’ starring Robert Redford and Nick Nolte. Lovers of spectacular mountain panoramas tend not to get their money’s worth however, as a large part of the trail runs in the shade of the trees.

Tour Profile Appalachian Trail

Country: USA Length: 3,500 km Vertical metres: approx. 142,000 Stages: Whatever you choose Duration: 4-6 months Terrain: Lower ranges forest Suitable for: Thru-hiking beginners and anyone interested in getting to know the thru-hike community Accommodation: Tent or tarp and basic shelter huts

Personal requirements: Good level of fitness and basic outdoor skills. Navigation ability: Basic map reading skills, trail is signposted Info: appalachiantrail.org Reading: The Green Tunnel – A Hiker’s Appalachian Trail Diary, virtualbookworm.com Publishing; The A.T. Guide – A Handbook for Hiking the Appalachian Trail

12 Huella Andina Trail

Patagonia – a dream destination for many trekking enthusiasts. The Huella Andina Trail runs through the north of the region – an area characterised by mountains like those in the Alps, volcanoes, sparkling lakes and, in parts, densely forested valleys. The government now no longer pays for the upkeep of the trail.

And so the route still exists but has become overgrown in parts and is not waymarked throughout any more. It leads from Pehuenia on Lago Moquehue in the north via Bariloche and El Bolson to Puerto Patriada a Lago Epuyén. Scenic highlights are dotted along this epic trail like a string of pearls. Heading south along this long-distance walk, you’ll hike through five national parks: Lanin, Nahuel Huapi, Los Arrayanes, Lago Puelo and Los Alerces. A dream come true for the more experienced adventurer.

Tour profile Huella Andina Trail

Country: Argentina Length: 450 km Stages: 42 Duration: Approx. 6-8 weeks Terrain: Alpine and subalpine mountain landscapes, desert-like volcanic landscapes Suitable for: Experienced, adventurous thru-hikers; experienced mountain hikers. Accommodation: Tent, hostels

Personal requirements: Good level of fitness and solid outdoor skills. Navigation ability: Very good with map reading, compass and GPS Info: huellaandinatrail.com Reading: Lonely Planet Trekking in the Patagonian Andes

Christian Penning

Often found on high-alpine summits, or wild, windy beaches. In the mountains of Bavaria, the Western Alps or South America – mountaineering, trekking and trail running.

Translation: Nadja Sharman & James Heath Photos: Chris/Adobe Stock (2), amthinkin/Adobe Stock, baisa/Adobe Stock, Ivan/Adobe Stock, zwerger-schoner.com, IDM/Manuel Kottersteger, Eric Thioliere, Lukas Warzecha/westsweden.com, Nikolay Tsuguliev/istockphoto, WoutervandenBroek/istockphoto, redwedge/istockphoto, visitwales.com, teararoa.org.nz, Thorsten Hoyer, pcta.org, appalachiantrail.org

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Association

FRANCE'S THRU HIKING TRAIL

The usa has its pacific crest trail, appalachian trail and cdt, new zealand has its te araroa, italy has its va sentiero, france now has the hexatrek , the great crossing of france through its most beautiful mountains .

HexaTrek is a 3034 km hiking trail, connecting 14 of the most beautiful nationals parks and crossing France from the  Vosges to the Pyrenees . The path follows the highest mountain regions of our country, often nicknamed "l'Hexagone" for its hexagonal shape, joining together some of the most emblematic summits , natural wonders and wildest places.  

47 Great Hiking GR®  trails have been brought together in a single path to create this thru hike.

Stopping off in the most picturesque villages, HexaTrek is a journey into wilderness ,  tradition , history and french culture.

FRANCE'S LONG DISTANCE TRAIL

THE “3000” of HexaTrek

Accessible fron the trail.

If you feel like adding a few meters of altitude difference to the 140,000 m already present on the route, discover the alternative routes of the HexaTrek. Here is our top 10 peaks over 3000m accessible from the HexaTrek route

THE HIKING GEAR LIST

Equipment you should carry in your bag.

The gear you are bringing with you on your thru-hike is paramount to its success To guarantee your independence and autonomy, here is a gear list to help you be ready to face the HexaTrek.

Hiking with your dog

The complete guide.

Between a reserve and the heart of a national park, the official HexaTrek route is only 80% passable with your dog. Find here the complete guide to prepare for the hexatrek with your dog, the route that we recommend...

Become a Trail Angel

Online form.

Whether it's for a hot shower, a meal, a piece of land, many of you have offered your help since the launch of HexaTrek. If you would like to help, you can use this form to be referenced on the online map

The Trail Angel map

The hexa community.

Find all the people next to the trail who offered to help the HexaTrek hikers.

We hope that the HexaTrek Trail Family will grow and that many magical moments will be born between hikers and hosts.

Leaving for several months to cross France requires preparation! Find our 3 most useful articles to help you organize.

Before you start, subscribe to the newsletter, once a month, we will share important news , tutorials to better prepare yourself and articles dedicated to hiking ..

Thank you !

Follow us on our social networks

Discover the route in pictures , the most beautiful landscapes   that are crossed, illustrated every day on our page.

Every day a landscape

Press articles, hiking advice or even initiatives from the HexaTrek community, all our latest information is on our facebook page.

The news of the trail

Already more than 3000 Hexatrekkers have joined us, we regularly answer questions and organize audio conferences to help hikers prepare.

Discussion Group

By joining the Hexatrek Strava Club, you will be able to share your days by mentioning the club and find the activity of other hikers on the trail.

ARTICLES ABOUT HEXATREK

Click the logos to read the articles.

PARTNERS & SPONSORS

Immerse yourself in the heart of the trail, this documentary film invites you to discover the HexaTrek, an extraordinary long hike in the heart of the mountains, 3000km to connect the most beautiful natural parks in France. For several months, we went to meet these hikers who cross France on foot to immortalize their stories and their adventures on the Trail.

SUMMITS & STORIES

• What's the best season to hike the HexaTrek? In the north-south direction, we recommend starting after May 15 and before July 1. Snow accumulations in the Alps are still very high until early July. Leaving before June 1 exposes you to snow difficulties as soon as you arrive in the Alps. In the South-North direction, the best departure time is between June 1 and July 15. ➡️ Read our full article
• NOBO or SOBO ? Heading north-south (SOBO): With a gradual start in the Vosges mountains, hikers will have time to build up their physical fitness and arrive in the Alps well-prepared, once the passes have been freed of their winter snow. Bonus: magnificent sunsets over the Pyrenees, and a more symbolic arrival at the Atlantic Ocean! -Heading south-north (NOBO): Starting from the Pyrenees, you'll need to be in better physical shape at the start. After a few years' experience, we increasingly recommend this direction to avoid snow problems in the Alps. By the end of your hike, the Vosges will never be so snow-covered as to block your way, so you can go at your own pace. With a departure in June, you'll cross directly into the Pyrenees in June and the Alps in September, two great periods outside the school vacations to enjoy the best of both ranges without the tourists and full refuges.
• How long does it take to thru-hike the HexaTrek At a rate of 25km per day, with one rest day per week, the trek will take an average of 120 days to complete the entire thru-hike. Feedback from previous years indicates a duration of between 90 and 150 days. For those who don't have the time to do the whole trek in one go, we've divided the trek into 6 sections, so that it can be achieved in several stages over several seasons. 25km per day is an average, but some sections will be much more physical than others. Remember, the HexaTrek represents some 139,000m of cumulative ascent; 15 times Mount Everest! ➡️ Read more information about the trail
• Is it possible to CAMP anywhere on the HexaTrek Over a distance of more than 3,000km, you'll cross some of France's most beautiful mountainous regions. 74% of the HexaTrek is in areas where bivouacs are permitted. To find out where these are, you'll need to pay close attention to the signs on the trail, or you can download the official HexaTrek mobile app, which lists all areas where bivouacking is prohibited. ➡️ See our article about wild camp
• What is the average budget to complete the entire HexaTrek? This answer varies widely according to hiker profile. 10 € per day: Almost exclusively bivouacs, less than one night in a refuge per month and one restaurant per week. Your only expenses are your supplies and any breakages. 25 € per day: This is the average, i.e. €3,000 for 120 days. This includes 1 refuge per week, several midday or evening meals in the refuges and a few small pleasures during your 4-month walk. + 40 € per day: You regularly stay in half-board accommodation, sleep in refuges very often and buy quality groceries, freeze-dried food, sometimes sleep in hotels or treat yourself to other, more expensive pleasures.
• How to organize your hike, resupply, water points... The HexaTrek is a long-distance trek that can't really be organized in advance. It's hard to book a hut several weeks in advance, or deal with the unexpected on such a long trek. Along the way, you'll find regular water points, and the distances between 2 ressuply point are never more than 5 days of food carry. In the HexaTrek mobile app, you'll find all the water points, refuges, resupplies and other information you need to organize your day-to-day activities.
• What is the difficulty level of the trail? The entire HexaTrek is a made only of Hiking Trail. This is a challenging route, reaching many peaks close to 3000m elevation. Demanding physically and mentally condition, the Alps and Pyrenean stages include a lot of elevation gain. They also include some tricky passages, but no mountaineering skills are required during the summer season. If you set off outside the recommended periods, special equipment such as crampons or ice-axe may be required. The HexaTrek also includes alternatives paths, more demanding routes in the high mountains. A full list of the 11 alternative routes can be found on the mobile app, along with all the points of interest indicating where the difficult sections are. Good physical preparation is recommended, but long-distance hiking is an endurance activity accessible to all.
• What is the HexaTrek Association? he HexaTrek association is a registered non-profit organization under the French law of 1901. It was founded in 2021 to serve as an administrative structure, with the aim of developing and promoting this new trail in France and around the world. The project is run by a team of passionate volunteers, if you'd like to support us, join the HexaTrek community, enjoy benefits or participate in the life of the association, you can become a member. ➡️ Become a Member or Make a Donation
• Is it possible to hike with a dog ? It is not always easy to know the regulations limiting access to dogs. Between reserve and heart of national park, the official HexaTrek route is only 80% passable with your dog. We have published a complete guide to preparing for the hexatrek with your dog, the route we recommend as well as feedback from the first person to have hiked this trail accompanied by the now legendary dog : Thrall! ➡️ See the article in the Complete Guide
• How to become a partner or contribute to the project? Hexatrek is a non-profit association dedicated to creating the French hiking trail. Crossing France through its mountains, culture and wilderness, your donation will enable us to continue to grow Hexatrek, improve our infrastructure and maintain the trail. As an association, your donation will be eligible for tax deduction, and your generosity will help us build the trail's future. Your donation will also enable you to become a member of our association. ➡️ Open the Partnership page
• I have other questions... If you have any further questions, we invite you to join our DISCORD channel. thousand hikers have joined us on this forum, and we regularly answer any questions people may have. ➡️ Join us on discord

HexaTrek Association

With your membership fee, you allow the HexaTrek Association to continue its adventure while developing the trail for future hikers. Join the HexaTrek Association, receive invitations to organized events, benefit from advantages offered by the association and participate in the HexaTrek community. Your donations are eligible for tax receipts allowing you to deduct 66% of the amount paid from your taxable income.

SHARE YOUR ACTIVITIES

Would you like to share your hiking days on strava join the hexatrek club, share your activities and find the journey of other hikers, vosges - doubs - jura.

Etape 1 - Le Grand Est

Rencontrez les paysages féeriques du grand-est. entre forêts verdoyantes et cascades d’eau cristalline, à travers les trésors cachés de l’est français., dénivelé +, durée, savoie - beaufortain - vanoise.

Etape 2 - Alpes du Nord

Une traversée au cœur des plus beaux paysages de montagne, au centre de la mythique chaine des alpes., ecrins - belledonne - vercors.

Etape 3 - Hautes Alpes

Les hautes-alpes sont un paradis pour les randonneurs qui s’y aventurent. des espaces naturels sublimes à chaque virage de l'étape., cévennes - tarn - languedoc.

Etape 4 - Gorges & Causses

Ici, les gorges ont façonné les paysages au fil du temps et de l’eau. créant de hauts plateaux entre les jonctions de ces rivières, ces reliefs offrent aux randonneurs de l’hexatrek d’incroyables points de vue., corbière - catalogne - ariége.

Etape 5 - Pyrénées Est

L’itinéraire de cette étape traverse continuellement les frontières, entre la france, l’andorre et l’espagne. vous resterez au cœur du massif pyrénéen, au plus proche des sommets., parc national - bearn - basque.

Etape 6 - Pyrénées Ouest

Des plus hauts sommets pyrénéens au littoral français, cette étape vous conduira à travers des lieux mythiques comme le cirque de gavarnie ou le pic du midi d'osseau, discover 6 stages of the trail, whether you are going for the big adventure, or just a section of the hexatrek, discover each stages in more detail.

Stage 1 - The Great East

Discover the mystical landscapes of the grand est. between green forests and crystal clear waterfalls through the hidden treasures of eastern france., stage 2 - northern alps, throughout the heart of the most beautiful mountain landscapes, hike and enjoy the beautiful vistas in the center of the exceptional alps., stage 3 - southern alps, the hautes-alpes are a paradise for hikers who venture there. you will encounter magnificent natural areas at every corner., stage 4 - gorges & causses, here, time and water have shaped the landscape and dug deep gorges. creating high plateaux between the junctions of these rivers, this contrast offer hexatrek hikers incredible views., stage 5 - east pyrenees, the itinerary of this stage crosses the borders continuously, between france, andorra and spain. you will remain in the heart of the pyrenean range, close to the summits., stage 6 - west pyrenees, from the highest pyrenean summits to the french coastline, this stage will lead you through world-famous places such as the cirque de gavarnie or the pic du midi d'osseau..

THE MOBILE APP

Find all the points of interest, bivouac areas, refuges and all the places essential to your autonomy.

The official application of the trail, finally available!  

 All maps are available offline

Find all the bivouac areas , unguarded shelters and huts along the trail and know where to spend the night.

Don't miss any of the unmissable points of interest , natural wonders and the most beautiful villages in France

Identify water and resupply points to guarantee your autonomy

YOUR GUIDE ON THE TRAIL

Whether you are leaving for the great adventure, or simply a section of the hexatrek, discover the most beautiful landscapes of the trail in pictures, our latest articles.

Le Club Vosgien, un partenaire d’exception

Que cela soit un simple banc, une table de pique-nique, un abri ou encore un châlet-refuge, vous croiserez de nombreux aménagements entretenus par le Club Vosgien et leur bénévoles. À travers leurs sentiers et leurs balisages d’une qualité unique en France, vous découvrirez le massif des Vosges et leur richesse historique, culturelle ainsi que leur biodiversité remarquable.

HexaTrek - La randonnée longue distance de France

Alors que les Etats-Unis ont le Pacific Crest Trail, que la  Nouvelle-Zélande a le Te Araroa, il etait grand temps de donner à la  France un parcours qui mette en valeur toute la beauté et la diversité  de ses paysages !  Une équipe d’authentiques passionnés lancent l’HexaTrek en 2022 :  3 034 km de sentiers à travers les montagnes !

Top 10 Thru-Hike au monde

Les sentiers de longue randonnée inspirent des récits contradictoires de solitude et de camaraderie, de lits de rivière déserts et de plateaux de montagne, de plaisir et de douleur.

L'idée de parcourir des milliers de kilomètres à pied est elle-même à peine croyable. C'est peut-être ce qui rend ces aventures si mémorables.

Club Vosgien is partner of the HexaTrek

Whether it's a simple bench, a picnic table, a shelter or even a refuge shawl, you will come across many facilities maintained by the Club Vosgien and their volunteers. Through their trails and their markings of a unique quality in France, you will discover the Vosges mountains and their historical and cultural wealth as well as their remarkable biodiversity.

Hexatrek - The French thru hiking trail

United States has the Pacific Crest Trail, New Zealand has the Te Araroa, it was time to give France a trail that would hike all the beauty and diversity of its landscapes! A team of true enthusiasts are launching the HexaTrek in 2022: 3,000 km of trails through the mountains!

Breaking News

Top 10 thru-hike in the world.

Long-distance trails inspire conflicting tales of solitude and camaraderie, of deserted riverbeds and mountain plateaus, of pleasure and pain. The idea of walking thousands of miles is itself hardly believable. Perhaps that is what makes these adventures so memorable.

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How to Pack for a Long Distance Walk – Essential List for Hiking!

Going on a walking holiday? Perhaps you fancy walking the length of Hadrian’s Wall, seeing the miles of stunning coastal paths in Devon and Cornwall or venturing abroad. Sounds great! But what should you pack for a long distance walk and how are you going to carry it all?

Whenever you plan of a long distance, or challenging hike , you need the right kit with to make your journey comfortable and enjoyable. Each item you take must have a purpose, otherwise there’s no point in lugging it about! The balance need to be right with the items you take, and the weight they add to your backpack.

Some walking holiday organisers will arrange to have your bag dropped ahead of you, at the place where you will be spending the night. This really helps if you don’t fancy carrying it!

For others, getting somewhere under your own steam with everything you need with you brings a sense of achievement and pride. You can read more about some of the best long distance walks in the UK here.

There is a whole load of kit that you can take on a long distance walk, and much of it will depend on the climate, whether your are camping out or have a roof over your head at night. However, there are some essential items to pack for a long distance walk that are useful no matter what type of trek you’re on. Let’s take a look at what you should carry with you along the way.

What to Pack for a Long Distance Walk

Socks – You will need spare socks, at least two pairs or more depending on how many days you are trekking. Your feet are doing all the walking, so they need good quality walking socks to keep them clean, dry and help to prevent blisters along the way.

Choose walking socks made from sweat wicking fabric. Stay clear of cotton as it holds moisture close to your skin, creating blisters.

Some of the best walking sock brands are Smartwool , Bridgedale and Stance .

First Aid Kit – a compact first aid kit will fit neatly into any backpack, and is there to treat those minor injuries you might encounter along the way. You kit should contain treatment for insect stings and bites, a blister kit including blister plasters and antiseptic cream, pain relief such as paracetamol, and allergy tablets. Don’t forget to bring your regular medication if you take any!

Water – a hydration water bladder is brilliant for long distance walks, and more convenient than fumbling about for a bottle of water. You fill your water bag and wear it as a pack, and a long tube allows you to sip from it whenever you need to. Some hydration packs double up as a backpack, or you can fit them inside your usual backpack.

If you don’t fancy carrying water supplies, other than a small bottle, then there are personal water filtration systems that are ideal for long distance walking.

Products such as Lifestraw or Sawyer straw mean you can drink from most outdoor water sources without the need to boil. No need to be weighed down with extra supplies.

As long as you know there will be water sources, a personal filtration system works and eases the weight of your backpack. See the comparisons of personal filtration systems here .

Food and Snacks – When walking long distances, you need food to keep you feeling energised. Stash some emergency rations such as cereal bars, nuts, crackers and dried fruit in your backpack for if you are delayed between meals.

Weather Protection – Pack a waterproof jacket in case it rains. A hat to keep the sun off your head or insulate if it’s chilly. Sun cream if it’s sunny! Keep an extra layer of clothing handy in case the weather turns colder or you get soaked. Don’t forget a rain cover for your backpack too!

Map – going on a long distance walk without a map is like getting dressed in the dark… Yes you’ll still be walking somewhere… but you might not look or feel so great when you end up miles from where you should be.

With a map, you will be aware of some of the cool things around you, learn what the terrain up ahead is like and know which way to go if you lose track of the footpath.

The good old OS maps are by far the best hiking maps and cover the length and breadth of Britain.

Money/Cards – You know that pub appearing over the horizon? Well, if you have some form of payment you can enjoy a meal, a refreshing beverage and a well-earned rest! Enough said.

Phone – A phone gives you peace of mind that you can make an emergency call if you need to. You can also take some special photos to remind you of your trip. Smart phones also have apps where you can use a compass, access maps etc. which is handy if your paper map gets eaten by a wild goat.

Might be good to have…

Torch – A small torch is useful if it takes you longer than expected to reach your destination, and dusk begins to settle in. Out in the countryside it gets proper dark!

Gaiters – These are like sleeves for your ankles and calves, and are useful to keep you dry on boggy ground. The also help to stop little stones and debris from finding its way into boots via your ankles, especially if you wear leggings or similar tight-legged trousers. Check out this post on the best gaiters for hikers .

Walking Poles – Some love them, some hate them. But, if you are a little unsteady over loose ground or need to keep your balance on steep hills, are very useful indeed. Here’s a quick guide to hiking poles .

When packing for a long distance walk, it makes sense to pack as light as possible. It’s amazing how much stuff you don’t actually need, so go through each of your items and ruthlessly get rid of anything that your might only need once, if at all, like that camping cooking saucepan set!

Do you have any tips for packing for a long distance walk? Please share in the comments below!

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23 Long-Distance Walking Tips

Got a long distance trek planned? My top long-distance walking tips below are all the things I wish someone had told me before I’d started going on thru-hiking adventures

I learnt a lot during my first long-distance hike – covering over 1000km on the Israel National Trail. A year later, I then went on to hike the desert section of the Jordan Trail .

( Read my bestselling memoir Three Stripes South about hiking the Israel National Trail. )

Hiking is very personal, and you’ll no doubt find your own style on the trail. But picking up a few tips early on can make all the difference in packing light, avoiding rookie mistakes and ending your trip short because of injury.

YOU MIGHT ALSO WANT TO CHECK OUT:

• How to pack a hiking backpack like a pro
• Thru hiking gear list
• 7 tips for stay warm while camping
• Tips for hiking in the desert
• 23 songs on my hiking playlist

#1 Invest in good boots and socks

On a thru hike, your feet are the number one most important thing and looking after them will make the biggest difference in the comfort of your journey. Investing in a decent pair of boots or shoes (what you take depends on terrain and preference) should, therefore, be a priority.

My leather boots (Hanwag) were not cheap but they are comfortable, protect my ankles and, as long as I look after them, should last me a long time. You should also take with you 2 pairs of good quality wool hiking socks ( I use Bridgedale ).

#2 Wear your boots in

A classic beginner mistake!

You will want to wear your boots or shoes as much as possible before the trek to reduce blisters and other problems. Start with short journeys like walking to the shops or just wearing them around the house. Once you are confident they aren’t going to cause you any problems then start wearing them on longer day hikes.

#3 Pack as light as you can

Being able to spend a bit more helps here as ultralight equipment normally comes at a cost. Regardless though, the less you take, the easier it will be for you – it will be quicker to pack, you will have fewer things to lose and less weight to carry.

Buying second-hand will save you a ton of money. As well as being more environmentally friendly.

Check out my kit list to give you an idea of what you might need.

#4 Sleeping bags work better outside the stuff sack

This was a revelation for me. I threw out my stuff sack and just squashed my sleeping bag in the bottom of my rucksack.

Not only does this take up much less space, but it also saves so much time packing in the morning. I also ditched my Therm-a-rest roll mat stuff sack as well.

But make sure if you do this that you follow #5…..

#5 Waterproof your bag

Wet kit is never fun and usually leads to cold, miserable nights. Waterproof bags covered are ok but I’ve found the most effective technique is using a large dry sack inside your bag that protects everything.

#6 Test run all your equipment

Fit in at least 1 overnight test run of all your equipment. It’s a great opportunity to ditch useless kits that you don’t need and to fix any problems.

#7 Fitness can be built as you go

Ideally, you will fit in some long walks and carry your (full) pack around a bit before you set off. If you run out of time to train properly though, don’t worry. I did not start the Israel National Trail in good shape. Sure, the first couple of weeks were tough, but, as long as you have a good basic fitness level, your body will adjust surprisingly quickly.

#8 Laziness is your worst enemy

Everything on a long-distance hike can feel like too much effort sometimes – stopping to readjust an uncomfortable pack or shoes, making a proper meal at the end of the day, sealing everything properly, getting up in the night to put the outer of your tent on if it starts to rain, etc. It can be easy to cut corners, but this can lead to disastrous consequences – blisters, pulled muscles, wet equipment, lack of energy.

#9 Blisters; Prevent don’t treat

I only got 1 blister the entire trip, hiking 1000km on the Israel National Trail, thanks to learning how to prevent them.

Firstly, good shoes and socks, and don’t forget to wear them in. If you are prone to blisters, also take a liner pair of socks; they work brilliantly. Another method that works well is rubbing a generous amount of Vaseline around the areas that rub before you put your socks on.

#10 Take and give generously

The hiker community is amazing, as are the trail angels (people who help hikers). Don’t be shy to take people up on their generosity. I’m not alone in saying that the people I met were the highlight of my trip. Equally, be generous with others. Share food if you have it, help with advice or find your own way to give back some trail magic. It’s all part of becoming an active member of the community.

#11 Always check your area after a break

My next long distance walking tip: check your area when you leave. When you pack ultralight, everything you have with you is vital, so losing something can be a real pain. Every time you stop for a break or leave camp, make a habit of doing a sweep of the area.

#12 Consume regularly

Drink plenty in the mornings before you leave camp and in the evenings when you set up camp. In the day you want to be sipping water regularly ( hydration bladders are great for this ). How much you drink depends on how hot it is but you should be looking at at least 2 litres in the day.

Food intake is also important. You want high-calorie, high-energy foods. Snacks should cover both sugars, for instant energy, and carbohydrates, for long-term energy. Learn to love nuts if you don’t already! I also try to supplement my diet with multivitamins.

#13 Get plenty of sleep

On a thru hike, you will sleep a lot more than you normally do. You will likely set an alarm lot to make the most of the mornings. Make the most of easier days, though and allow yourself a lie in to wake up naturally.

#14 Take things easy

As a minimum, most people take 1 rest day every week. The Israel National Trail is a tough trek, hot and with lots of scrambling terrain….plus I was new to hiking. So I preferred to take a day off every 5 days.

On top of that, give yourself some contingency time so you can take an extra day if you are not in the mood, like the place you are staying in or get an injury. It’s not fun feeling too rushed. Start slow as well, and give yourself a couple of weeks to get used to hiking before you start planning longer days.

#15 If you think you need to wee….wee!

Especially at night. Never ignore the urge to wee. It’s cold and annoying getting up in the night but just do it. It will keep you up for hours, or keep waking you up, until, at last, you give in and realise you won’t be able to sleep until you’ve gone – it’s a camping thing!

You might also want to check out my tips for staying warm while camping .

#16 Don’t compare

There will be people walking faster than you and people walking slower. Things you find easy, others will find difficult and vice-versa. Everyone has their own capabilities, experience, strengths and weaknesses. Hikers love to compare, and it can be easy to knock yourself down.

Learn to celebrate your own personal successes regardless of others.

#17 Stretch daily

This is a game-changer on my long distance walking tips when it comes to preventing injuries.

Every evening when long distance hiking, I try to do 15 minutes of stretching. It made all the difference, loosening up my muscles and making it easier to sleep and get going the next day.

#18 Understand the weather

Do some research before you go on the area and season so you can plan your outfit and gear accordingly. Make a habit of checking weather forecasts every week to avoid dangerous situations from heavy rain, snow or heat waves.

If you are heading to the desert, check out these tips for desert hiking .

#19 Know it’s not always fun

Thru-hiking isn’t a glamorous montage of adventures and amazing moments. It’s a journey with highs, lows, good times and lots of tough times in between. It swings in roundabouts. I would have stretches where I was bored, fed up, tired and didn’t know why I was doing this. Then, suddenly, I would have a day where I felt completely alive and in awe of what I was doing.

Be realistic and learn to look at the tough times as all part of the experience.

#20 Find ways to tackle boredom

Walking 8-10 hours every day was sometimes boring. Being with other people helps pass the time, but, often, I would find myself completely on my own. An iPod shuffle is a great hikers companion (they’re very small and light, and the battery lasts a while).

As well as music, I downloaded a few podcasts and audiobooks. I can fully recommend giving singing out loud at the top of your voice a go as well….and dancing if you are in the mood.

Check out 23 Songs on my hiking playlist!

#21 Do your own long distance hike

You will meet people along the way, and it can be easy to end up following others and fitting in around their style. I learnt quickly to be comfortable saying that I wanted to walk on my own or that I wanted to camp somewhere different. As much as a thru-hike is about meeting people, it’s also about discovering your own journey.

Walk at your own pace and follow your gut instincts. Make sure you spend some time alone. It’s those moments, being alone in nature, that I cherish the most when I look back on my experience.

#22 Don’t have any expectations for the end

As well as being exciting and rewarding, the end came as a relief. Once the mixed emotions had passed, I had a strange anti-climax. Fitting back into a new life takes some adjusting. The final of my long distance walking tips is to not build any expectations…..just take it as it is.

#23 Make sure you are covered!

I’ve had to visit hospitals on three different occasions while abroad. I also had my bag stolen in Bangkok with everything I had with me in it…. including my passport and money. Insurance is SO important to have. So make sure you are covered.

Not all insurance covers long-distance walking so double-check this. For all my long-distance treks, I previously used World Nomads.

I hope you found these long distance walking top tips helpful.

Got a long distance hike planned? Then let me know if you have any questions in the comments box below. I’d also love to know if you have any of your own top tips for long distance trekking.

You can stay updated with my adventures and advice on Facebook  and  Instagram . Or you can subscribe to my YouTube channel . I give all my advice for free on my website. If you want to say thanks, you can buy me a coffee !

**MY BOOK ABOUT HIKING THE ISRAEL NATIONAL TRAIL** Grab a copy of my published book, Three Stripes South . All about my hike on the INT and how it changed my life. Don’t forget to also sign up to my newsletter to stay up to date with future adventures.

8 thoughts on “ 23 Long-Distance Walking Tips ”

Have you thought of writing your experiences and learning into a book, Bex? It will always be part of you but shouldn’t be lost to others! Sue and Ron

Hi Sue and Ron I’m letting the idea brew for a bit. I like the idea! If I can find a bit of time while relaxing in zanzibar, maybe I will start putting something together! Thanks for supporting us every step of the way 🙂 Bex x

Disagree about the boots. For 35 years wore boots for hiking. A person I met on the trail (he had thru hiked the AT 3 X) advised me to switch to trail runners and he was right. They dry quicker, allow water to run out of your shoes so feet are drier and you walk in rain and water a lot. For first 500 miles I had hiked in leather boots and feet were always wet from sweat if not from rain and I could see that would be a problem) I have never gone back to boots except in winter weather. They are lighter in weight also which helps a lot. I have never needed the ankle support after nearly 40 years hiking and backpacking have never injuried an ankle. Again it is personal preference as to foot weat as well as other gear but a different opinion. Never suffered a blister on my entire 2186 mile AT thru hike. Lacing shoes properly help tremendously.

I’ve recently started to switch to trail shoes but only for hikes on easier paths. On the INT there were a couple of times I tripped on technical and difficult terrain and felt my ankle twist as far as the boots would let them. So I’m not sure I’d make the switch entirely. Definitely, agree they are sweatier though!

so i was planning on my very first long trek and i stumble up here.. i was reading your tips and it gave me much more idea on what i should do on my travel… thanks alot 😊😊😊

So great to hear – thank you Shane!! 🙂

I am a biginner in mountain climbing. How many times do I need to train to be fit to do the three peaks in Yorkshire in 12 hours

Hi Bex, found your site while looking for an answer to the walk-rest ration during a day. I’m planning to walk Te Araroa trail in New Zealand, 3000km in 4 months, meaning either walk 25km/day without a rest or 30km/day with one day per week rest. But during a single day what is better? Say rest every hour or every 5 km or walk 10-15km in the morning, then spend hot time in a shadow for few hours and then walk another 15km in the evening? Was there any research done on how our body reacts to stress? Is it better longer stress periods and longer rest intervals or the shorter the better? Thanks!

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I’m Bex Band, an award-winning author, speaker and founder of the women’s adventure community Love Her Wild . I’m passionate about adventure and conservation!

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How Far Did Frodo & Sam Walk in The Lord of the Rings?

• J. R. R. Tolkien had a great attention to detail in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, which allows fans to actually track the distances that the Fellowship, especially Frodo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee, traveled.
• Frodo and Sam traveled over a thousand miles from the Shire to Mount Doom in the Lord of the Rings trilogy, over multiple landscapes and terrains.
• Thanks to Tolkien's world-building, fans also know that Frodo and Sam's journey took a much shorter time than many people might assume due to the great distance.

Frodo and Sam's journey across Middle-earth is a long and physically exhausting trek over some dangerous territory. And part of what makes their adventure so compelling is the simplicity of it, as their goal is to make it from one point to another before Sauron's power grows too strong, all while avoiding detection. This walk takes many grueling months for the two Hobbits to complete, and the total distance they walk throughout The Lord of the Rings is equally impressive. Through craggy rocks, flat marshes, caves of giant spiders and the slopes of Mount Doom, Frodo and Sam walk along hundreds of miles. And this is all while they try to avoid armies of Orcs and Sauron's legions spreading across Middle-earth. Then, of course, there's the most difficult task of all -- carrying the One Ring . It may appear like a light trinket, but what it houses is a painful burden for even the strongest minds.

Author J.R.R. Tolkien had a strong eye for detail, and took care to work out many of the logistical necessities of Frodo's journey, such how far he would have to go and how many days he would have to do it. Thanks to information in the Appendices of his celebrated trilogy, as well as a map provided in most printings of the text, it's possible to chart the exact time and distance traveled in each stage of Frodo's journey.

Updated on March 22, 2024 by Robert Vaux: The wonderful maps from Tolkien's various published works let readers see exactly where the protagonists travel in Middle-earth. That in turn helps better paint the picture of a huge fantasy world -- full of its own kingdoms, landmarks and history -- and bring epic events such as the War of the Ring to life. The article has been expanded to include new details on Frodo and Sam's journey in terms of distance traveled. It has also been updated to match CBR's current style guidelines.

How Fans Can Measure Distance in The Lord of the Rings

The lord of the rings: merry and pippin's best quotes.

Tolkien was a famous nature lover who disdained modern conveniences, and his proclivities are reflected in the text of The Lord of the Rings. The Hobbits, for instance, are portrayed as quiet farmers and country gentry, while Elves exist in harmony with the natural world around them. On a subtler level, both of his major narratives -- The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings -- are essentially long walks: the former from Bag End to the Lonely Mountain, the latter from Bag End to Mount Doom. The prospect gave the author ample opportunity to explore the countryside of Middle-earth, and the novels are filled with lush descriptions of the trees, hills, valleys, and underground caverns of the Hobbits' journeys.

That came with a huge amount of detail, as Tolkien built up the world of Middle-earth itself as part of his writing. Most importantly, his son Christopher created a map of Middle-earth in 1953, as his father was preparing to publish The Lord of the Rings for the first time. Tolkien referred to it in his notes as "the general map," and versions of it have been included in every edition of Th e Lord of the Rings published since. Most helpfully, it includes a scale in miles, which lets readers chart just how much walking Frodo and the various members of the Fellowship did, as well as Bilbo's journey to The Lonely Mountain and back again. Dedicated runners and outdoor enthusiasts can even attempt to walk the same distance in a given amount of time. It's one more example of just how thorough Tolkien was with his world-building, and how well Middle-earth has endured accordingly. It also makes the question relatively easy to answer.

How Many Miles Frodo and Sam Travel in The Lord of the Rings

The distance between the village of Hobbiton and the village of Bree is 120 miles. With these two points marked on Middle-earth's map, it's possible to gauge the distance the Fellowship traveled throughout the trilogy. So, with their first destination being Rivendell, it's estimated that the Hobbits traveled 420 miles starting from the Shire. They take about a month to cover that distance, which is quite impressive considering it takes place entirely on foot.

Rivendell is where the Fellowship is formed, and the journey properly begins. After about two months' of rest, the Fellowship sets out, and together, the group travels roughly 475 miles until Boromir dies and they separate for good. During this time, they travel over mountains and through Dwarven ruins, as well as another rest stop in the Elven stronghold of Lothlorien for about a month. Using boats after visiting Lady Galadriel helped with some of that: covering about 300 miles by the map much faster than they could normally march. From that point, Frodo and Sam walk 340 miles to Mount Doom, and the final total of their journey is estimated to be approximately 1235 miles.

Frodo set out from Bag End in late September, and it's known the One Ring is finally destroyed on March 25. So, over this six-month period, they traveled almost 1300 miles, which averaged around seven miles per day. However, it was far from a consistent journey, as the Fellowship spent almost two months resting in Rivendell and later spent nearly a month with the Elves of Lothlorian . So, the traveling time was around three months, which averaged a little less than 14 miles walked per day. Even with a boat taking them some of the way, this was an impressive feat for such small Hobbits, let alone ones that were trying to hide from Sauron . And including the times they were slowed down -- climbing through mountains, traversing dangerous swamps, and battling the spider Shelob -- shows how persistent the two Hobbits really were.

How Long Frodo and Sam's Journey Took in The Lord of the Rings

How did gandalf and saruman age in the lord of the rings.

Even moreso, the care with which Tolkien assembled his timeline lends quiet insight into the pacing of the narrative. Early in their journey, the Hobbits maintain a brisk pace: sticking to roads and fields. That's accentuated by Frodo's flight to the Ford of Rivendell to end the first part of their quest. Once the Fellowship is formed, the pace slows again, which can be explained away by camping in the wilderness. Time and energy need to be set aside to make and break camp, as well as activities like hunting to secure food. Once the Fellowship breaks, Sam and Frodo maintain a blistering pace for a little more than a week: first attempting to enter Mordor by the Black Gate, then traveling south to Minas Morgul, where they climb the Stairs of Cirtih Ungol and have their battle with Shelob. Presumably, the Hobbits are marching from dawn until dusk at this stage: rarely bothering to set camp or start a fire, and relying largely on Elven lembas bread to keep moving. Finally, the quest ends in an agonizingly slow march through Mordor itself. Both the text and Peter Jackson's film adaptation have the Hobbits literally crawling on their hands and knees towards Mount Doom at one point.

The apt reflection of the drama in Tolkien's timetable shows how much thought he put into the quest of the Ring, and the way he established a clear, plausible timetable for his protagonists to actually be able to make the journey he was sending them on. While Frodo and Sam's quest was already impressive enough, the short time it took them to complete it makes it all the more special. They travel through so many different landscapes that it can be easy to assume the journey takes a year or even longer. But for them to walk across Middle-earth in half that time shows why they were the perfect people for the task:

The Lord of the Rings trilogy is currently streaming on Max.

The Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings is a series of epic fantasy adventure films and television series based on J. R. R. Tolkien's novels. The films follow the adventures of humans, elves, dwarves, hobbits and more in Middle-earth.

Created by J.R.R. Tolkien

First Film The Lord of the Rings: Fellowship of the Ring

Latest Film The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies

Upcoming Films The Lord of The Rings: The War of The Rohirrim

First TV Show The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power

Latest TV Show The Lord of the Rings The Rings of Power

First Episode Air Date September 1, 2022

Cast Charlie Vickers, Liv Tyler, Hugo Weaving, Sean Astin, Elijah Wood, Ian McKellen, Sean Bean, Andy Serkis, Richard Armitage, Martin Freeman, Cate Blanchett, Ismael Cruz Cordova, Morfydd Clark, Billy Boyd, Orlando Bloom, Viggo Mortensen, Miranda Otto, John Rhys-Davies, Dominic Monaghan

Character(s) Sauron, Gollum

Video Game(s) The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers, The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, The Lord of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth 2, The Lord of the Rings: The Third Age, The Lord Of The Rings: Battle For Middle-Earth, LEGO Lord of the Rings , Lord of the Rings Online, The Lord Of The Rings: Gollum, The Lord of the Rings: War in the North

Genre Action-Adventure, Fantasy

Where to Stream Max, Hulu, Prime Video

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More than 1,300 people died during Hajj, many of them after walking in the scorching heat

Muslim pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba, the cubic building at the Grand Mosque, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Monday, June 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool, File)

FILE - Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun as they arrive to cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual hajj, in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. More than 1,000 people died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced extreme high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, officials said Sunday, June 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

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CAIRO (AP) — More than 1,300 people died during this year’s Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia as the faithful faced extreme high temperatures at Islamic holy sites in the desert kingdom, Saudi authorities announced Sunday.

Saudi Health Minister Fahd bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel said that 83% of the 1,301 fatalities were unauthorized pilgrims who walked long distances in soaring temperatures to perform the Hajj rituals in and around the holy city of Mecca .

Speaking with the state-owned Al Ekhbariya TV, the minister said 95 pilgrims were being treated in hospitals, some of whom were airlifted for treatment in the capital, Riyadh. He said the identification process was delayed because there were no identification documents with many of the dead pilgrims.

He said the dead were buried in Mecca, without giving a breakdown.

The fatalities included more than 660 Egyptians. All but 31 of them were unauthorized pilgrims, according to two officials in Cairo. Egypt has revoked the licenses of 16 travel agencies that helped unauthorized pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia, authorities said.

The officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to brief journalists, said most of the dead were reported at the Emergency Complex in Mecca’s Al-Muaisem neighborhood. Egypt sent more than 50,000 authorized pilgrims to Saudi Arabia this year.

Saudi authorities cracked down on unauthorized pilgrims, expelling tens of thousands of people. But many, mostly Egyptians, managed to reach holy sites in and around Mecca, some on foot. Unlike authorized pilgrims, they had no hotels to return to to escape the scorching heat.

In a statement Saturday, Egypt’s government said the 16 travel agencies failed to provide adequate services for pilgrims. It said these agencies illegally facilitated the travel of pilgrims to Saudi Arabia using visas that don’t allow holders to travel to Mecca.

The government also said officials from the companies have been referred to the public prosecutor for investigation.

According to the state-owned Al-Ahram daily, some travel agencies and Hajj trip operators sold Saudi tourist visas to Egyptian Hajj hopefuls, violating Saudi regulations which require exclusive visas for pilgrims. Those agencies left pilgrims in limbo in Mecca and the holy sites in scorching heat, the newspaper said.

Muslim pilgrims use umbrellas to shield themselves from the sun as they arrive to cast stones at pillars in the symbolic stoning of the devil, the last rite of the annual hajj, in Mina, near the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia, Tuesday, June 18, 2024. (AP Photo/Rafiq Maqbool)

The fatalities also included 165 pilgrims from Indonesia, 98 from India and dozens more from Jordan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria and Malaysia, according to an Associated Press tally. Two U.S. citizens were also reported dead.

The AP could not independently confirm the causes of death, but some countries like Jordan and Tunisia blamed the soaring heat. AP journalists saw pilgrims fainting from the scorching heat, especially on the second and third days of the Hajj. Some vomited and collapsed.

Historically, deaths are not uncommon at the Hajj, which has seen at times over 2 million people travel to Saudi Arabia for a five-day pilgrimage. The pilgrimage’s history has also seen deadly stampedes and epidemics.

But this year’s tally was unusually high, suggesting exceptional circumstances.

In 2015 a stampede in Mina killed over 2,400 pilgrims , the deadliest incident ever to strike the pilgrimage, according to an AP count. Saudi Arabia has never acknowledged the full toll of the stampede. A separate crane collapse at Mecca’s Grand Mosque earlier the same year killed 111.

The second-deadliest incident at the Hajj was a 1990 stampede that killed 1,426 people.

During this year’s Hajj period, daily high temperatures ranged between 46 degrees Celsius (117 degrees Fahrenheit) and 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit) in Mecca and sacred sites in and around the city, according to the Saudi National Center for Meteorology. Some people fainted while trying to perform the symbolic stoning of the devil .

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is one of the world’s largest religious gatherings. More than 1.83 million Muslims performed the Hajj in 2024, including more than 1.6 million from 22 countries, and around 222,000 Saudi citizens and residents, according to the Saudi Hajj authorities.

Saudi Arabia has spent billions of dollars on crowd control and safety measures for those attending the annual five-day pilgrimage, but the sheer number of participants makes it difficult to ensure their safety.

Climate change could make the risk even greater. A 2019 study by experts at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology found that even if the world succeeds in mitigating the worst effects of climate change, the Hajj would be held in temperatures exceeding an “extreme danger threshold” from 2047 to 2052, and from 2079 to 2086.

Islam follows a lunar calendar, so the Hajj comes around 11 days earlier each year. By 2029, the Hajj will occur in April, and for several years after that it will fall in the winter, when temperatures are milder.