“I was being drawn toward the mountain in a search for adventure, by a desire to explore my own limitations and to also be immersed in a world so deeply beautiful that it would forever etch itself into my memory.” says Marc-Andre Leclerc, arguably the greatest alpinist of his generation.
Between thousands of mountains across the world, with acclaimed trails and accredited hills, something seems to stir beneath them. Indeed, because hiking is more than just scenic walks, physical exercise, and journeying from Point A to Point B. It is an experience, of everything and anything in-between.
Before you tread further, here’s a trail-worthy pun to share with your fellow adventurers on your next trek:
Why don’t mountains ever lose their way?
Because they’re always at their peak!
With that, here are some hiking trails for your next adventure.
#1: Svaneti
Sitting in the heart of the Caucasus Mountains is Svaneti, a paradise for ancient culture and history enthusiasts, with folklores, food, nature and adventure to enrich your experience. Their natives, Svans, are people with fierce, independent spirits, and their story dates back to primaeval empires and Caucasian tribes that will fill your mind with insight.
Location: Svaneti, Georgia, intersection of Europe and Asia
#2: Atlas Mountains
Ambling through the Atlas Mountains, one would find a rustic village filled with life and history. Celebrations, rituals, oral storytelling, and farming wafts through clay homes and caves of the nomadic people, where Moroccan tea, warm bread, and native plants dotted along mountain trails, reside.
Location: Atlas Mountains, Morocco, South Africa
#3: Longji Terraced Fields
Home to an ethnic minority called ‘Yao’, Longji is one of the largest mountain cultivation sites of rice fields, and the best way to see them is through the Longji Terraced Fields Hiking trail. There, you will be able to appreciate the yellow fields, experience the life of locals, and their work throughout generations.
Location: Longji, China, East Asia
#4: Ancient Rock Fortress
Through beautifully manicured gardens, sun-dappled grass, and the looming silhouette of Sigiriya (lion’s rock), this rock fortress holds the ruins of an ancient palace. Lined with 1270 steps, one can climb to the top to soak in the history and landscape of Sigiriya.
Location: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka, South Asia
#5: Colca Canyon
Twice as deep as the Grand Canyon, the Colca Canyon spans 14,000 feet from its highest point to its lowest. One can trek from its rim or from its floor, depending on level of suitability, but both treks reward with views of the Andean Condor, a sacred bird in Incan tribe culture. Together with that, the hike is lined with mountain villages, agricultural terraces, impressive vistas, and an adventure.
Location: Colca Canyon, Peru, South America
#6: Nong Khiaw
Surrounded by tall, limestone mountains, Nong Khiaw is a little haven for backpackers. Complete with a Nam Ou river offering recreational activities like kayaking, cycling, and caving, this small Laos town allows one to stretch out their legs and breathe in the fresh air, while challenging themselves with hikes of various difficulties.
Location: Nong Khiaw, Laos, Southeast Asia
#7: Fox Glacier
A beautiful but volatile mountain, the Fox Glacier is voted the best ‘Out of the Ordinary’ hiking experiences in the world. With sharp glaciers that are constantly shifting, to the sense of awe, immaculate sights, sounds, and feelings one encounters in this sea of ice, this experience will etch itself in your memory as a unique and magical adventure.
Location: Fox Glacier, New Zealand, Oceania
Source: Outside Journal of Nomads Enchanting Travels China Highlights Much Better Adventures Travel + Leisure, Adventures of Jelli, Fox Guides, New Zealand Tourism
