For those with a spirit of adventure and a love for the great outdoors, hiking trails offer a perfect blend of physical challenge and breathtaking beauty. While popular trails like the Inca Trail or the Appalachian Trail draw crowds, there are countless underrated hiking paths around the world that promise equally stunning experiences with fewer tourists. If you’re looking for your next hiking adventure, consider these five hidden gems that showcase the diverse landscapes and rich cultures often overlooked by mainstream travel.
1. The Dolomites’ Via Ferrata, Italy
Overview: While the Dolomites in northern Italy are known for their stunning peaks, the Via Ferrata routes offer an exhilarating way to experience these dramatic landscapes. Unlike traditional hiking, Via Ferrata involves climbing along protected paths with the help of fixed cables, ladders, and bridges.
Highlights:
- Scenic Beauty: The trails offer jaw-dropping views of jagged peaks, lush valleys, and alpine lakes.
- Challenging Terrain: The Via Ferrata routes cater to various skill levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. The routes typically include elements of rock climbing and hiking.
- Unique Experience: Enjoy a mix of hiking and climbing with safety equipment provided, making it accessible even to those with limited climbing experience.
Notable Trails:
- Via Ferrata delle Bocchette: Located in the Brenta Dolomites, this trail offers panoramic views and an exciting climbing experience.
- Via Ferrata Piz da Lech: A challenging route that rewards hikers with stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks and valleys.
2. The Tigray Highlands, Ethiopia
Overview: The Tigray Highlands in northern Ethiopia offer a rugged and remote hiking experience that takes you through dramatic landscapes, ancient rock-hewn churches, and traditional villages.
Highlights:
- Cultural Immersion: Hike through areas rarely visited by tourists and experience the unique culture and hospitality of the local communities.
- Historical Sites: Explore ancient rock-hewn churches and monasteries that date back to the 4th century, hidden in the dramatic highland terrain.
- Stunning Scenery: Enjoy breathtaking views of deep canyons, terraced hillsides, and dramatic rock formations.
Notable Trails:
- Gheralta Mountains: This area features challenging hikes with breathtaking views and opportunities to visit ancient churches.
- Simien Mountains: Though not entirely undiscovered, the Simien Mountains offer less crowded routes with stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife.
3. The Qhapaq Ñan Trail, Peru
Overview: While Machu Picchu often overshadows other Incan trails, the Qhapaq Ñan (Great Inca Road) offers a less traveled but equally fascinating hiking experience. This ancient road network spans over 30,000 kilometers and traverses diverse landscapes across South America.
Highlights:
- Historical Significance: Walk along parts of the original Inca road network, connecting ancient Incan cities and settlements.
- Varied Terrain: The trail passes through mountains, valleys, and high-altitude plateaus, offering diverse scenery and experiences.
- Cultural Encounters: Encounter traditional Andean communities and learn about their customs and lifestyle.
Notable Sections:
- Qhapaq Ñan in Cusco Region: Explore sections near Cusco that offer a combination of historical ruins and stunning landscapes.
- Qhapaq Ñan in the Sacred Valley: Hike through the Sacred Valley and experience lesser-known Incan ruins and stunning views.
4. The Overland Track, Tasmania
Overview: The Overland Track in Tasmania, Australia, is a multi-day trek that traverses the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. Although gaining recognition, it remains a less crowded alternative to other well-known hiking trails.
Highlights:
- Diverse Landscapes: Experience a range of environments, from ancient rainforests and alpine meadows to glacial lakes and rugged mountains.
- Rich Biodiversity: The track offers opportunities to observe unique Tasmanian flora and fauna, including wombats, wallabies, and rare bird species.
- Remote Wilderness: Enjoy the tranquility of a remote wilderness area with well-maintained campsites and facilities.
Notable Sections:
- Cradle Mountain to Lake St. Clair: The classic route covers approximately 65 kilometers, with highlights including Cradle Mountain, Barn Bluff, and Lake St. Clair.
- Side Trips: Explore additional trails such as the Hansons Peak or the Macquarie Harbor for extended adventures.
5. The Laugavegur Trail, Iceland
Overview: The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland offers a unique hiking experience through otherworldly landscapes characterized by volcanic terrain, geysers, hot springs, and glaciers. Though gaining popularity, it remains an excellent choice for those seeking a less crowded adventure.
Highlights:
- Stunning Landscapes: Hike through geothermal areas, colorful rhyolite mountains, and black sand deserts. The ever-changing scenery provides a constantly evolving backdrop.
- Hot Springs: Enjoy natural hot springs along the way, including the famous Landmannalaugar hot springs.
- Diverse Terrain: The trail covers diverse terrain, including lava fields, glaciers, and lush valleys.
Notable Sections:
- Landmannalaugar to Þórsmörk: The main route spans approximately 55 kilometers and offers varied landscapes and beautiful views.
- Side Trips: Consider exploring additional trails like the Fimmvörðuháls Pass for extra adventure and stunning vistas.
Conclusion
Embarking on a hiking adventure along one of these underrated trails offers a chance to experience nature’s beauty and cultural richness away from the well-trodden paths. From the rugged terrain of the Dolomites’ Via Ferrata to the remote highlands of Ethiopia, these trails promise a memorable journey filled with unique landscapes, historical significance, and cultural encounters. So, lace up your hiking boots, pack your gear, and set out to explore these hidden gems that are sure to provide an unforgettable adventure.