We have selected a list of ten of the most challenging trails, which not everyone can conquer. Some of them cannot even be completed in six months!
Hiking, or trekking, is an engaging activity that not only brings new experiences but also develops strength, endurance, and clears the mind.
All the trails in our TOP list stretch across picturesque landscapes and are surrounded by breathtaking scenery. Hiking any of them will be a true challenge and adventure!
1.TransPanama Trail, 800 km (Panama)
For lovers of tropical forests, the trail in Panama will be appealing, as it cuts through dense, mosquito-filled jungles from the border with Colombia — from the Darien National Park — to Costa Rica itself. The tourist will visit the Chagres Reserve, pass through the territories of the Embera and Kuna tribes, see the Baru Volcano, and canoe along the rivers — all of which will take just over 3 months.
2. Baker Trail, 805 km (Sudan-Uganda)
The route is named after Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker, the first European explorers to traverse it in 1864. Adventurers and adventure enthusiasts will be interested in following in their footsteps: starting the journey near Juba, the capital of South Sudan, and moving towards the Baker Settlement in Uganda along Lake Albert, the Victoria Nile River, and the Kabarega Falls.
3. South West Coast Path, 1016 km (UK)
The South West Coast Path, not the longest trail on the list but nonetheless fascinating, starts in Minehead, Somerset, and ends in Poole Harbour, Dorset. Stretching alongside the Atlantic Ocean, it passes through several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Jurassic Coast cliffs formed 240 million years ago. Hikers will encounter many ascents along the way, totaling 35 km in height gain, which is equivalent to climbing 4 Mount Everests!
4. Oregon Desert Route, 1287 km (USA)
In the rugged and stunning landscape of Oregon, there’s a hiking route that combines various short trails, historic roads, and paths through wilderness areas. Since you’ll be traversing through deserts, travelers need to ensure they have an adequate supply of drinking water. This route is not recommended for unprepared tourists.
5. Great Himalayan Trail, 1700 km (Nepal)
This relatively new hiking trail sits above others, at an elevation of 6146 meters amidst the majestic Himalayas. It combines several short sections across different parts of the mountain range. The Great Himalaya Trail is a route for the most prepared and experienced hikers. The difficulty of the high-altitude path is offset by magnificent views of the cliffs, valleys, and Nepalese villages far below.
6. Te Araroa, 3,000 km (New Zealand)
The name of this trail translates from the Maori language as «long.» Indeed, it’s not something you can quickly traverse. For an average person, walking the Te Araroa takes about 3 months. The record for completion is 53 days, set by ultramarathon runner Jez Bragg. The trail winds through stunning natural landscapes: towering mountain ranges, lush green capes, and sun-drenched glaciers.
7. Appalachian Trail, 3510 km (USA)
This trail spans 13 states of America, running along the Appalachian Mountain range. It takes about 5 million steps and 6-8 months for someone to hike from Mount Katahdin in Maine to Springer Mountain in Georgia. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the beautiful Great Smoky Mountains National Park, ascend the two-kilometer Clingmans Dome, and cross the Hudson River. However, one should be cautious not to encounter a black bear or a venomous snake.
8. Hokkaido Nature Trail, 4,585 km (Japan)
In the Land of the Rising Sun, there are numerous fascinating long-distance hiking routes. One of them is located on the island of Hokkaido. The Hokkaido Nature Trail spans various climatic zones and runs along steppes, forests, mountains, glaciers, and volcanoes. To enjoy the magnificent scenery, plenty of time is needed, as completing the trail takes at least half a year.
9. Continental Frontier, 4990 km (USA)
The Continental Divide Trail, running along the majestic Rocky Mountains, is one of the longest and most challenging hiking routes. It begins at the border with Mexico and stretches to Canada, passing by numerous natural landmarks of the United States. These include Gray’s Peak in Colorado, the Red Desert in Wyoming, and others. Few dare to embark on the Continental Divide Trail. Only about 150 people per year attempt it, but among them are even teenagers. One young hiker completed the trail at the age of 13.
10. Grand Italia, 6166 km (Italy)
A truly grand hiking route! It follows the alpine arc through Sicily, along the western coast of the Tyrrhenian Sea to Sardinia and leads to the ancient city of Tibula. It takes an average of 8 months for a tourist to cover such a long distance.
There are many dangerous and exciting routes in the world, which only the most courageous tourists can pass through. It can take a whole year to prepare for a hike and overcome such a trail, but it is worth it!
What’s the longest hike you’ve ever done?