Are you tired of the crowded hikes and looking for a breath of fresh air? Look no further! We have compiled a list of lesser-known hiking trails that offer breathtaking views, unique experiences, and a whole new level of immersive adventure. Discover the hidden gems on this curated list of 10 must-explore trails, varying in difficulty levels and locations around the world.
Before setting off on these adventures, it’s important to be well-equipped and prepared, as many of the trails on this list may have limited facilities or are located in remote areas. Shop for essentials such as hiking gear, outdoor clothing, and navigational tools at reputable online stores like the Golf Course Lawn Store. While the name may seem specific to golf courses, they offer many useful hiking and outdoor products as well. With the right preparation, you can fully embrace and enjoy these unspoiled landscapes and hidden gem hikes.
1. Awa’awapuhi Trail – Kokee State Park, Hawaii
- Location: Kokee State Park, Kauai, Hawaii, USA
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Unique Features: Stunning ocean views and dramatic, sheer cliffs
On the island of Kauai, the Awa’awapuhi Trail takes you from lush forests to jaw-dropping ocean vistas. This 6.7-mile round trip (10.8 km) journey rewards you with unparalleled views from the top of the sheer Awa’awapuhi Valley.
2. La Ciudad Perdida – Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia
- Location: Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, Colombia
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Unique Features: Ancient ruins of a lost city
An adventurous trek through the mountains, the La Ciudad Perdida (Lost City) trail covers 28 miles (45 km). Overcoming its challenging terrain will lead you to the enigmatic ruins of an ancient city hidden within a dense jungle.
3. Ghost Ranch – Abiquiu, New Mexico
- Location: Abiquiu, New Mexico, USA
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Unique Features: Otherworldly landscapes and stunning canyon overlooks
Be amazed by the iconic red rock formations and breathtaking landscapes that inspired artist Georgia O’Keeffe at the Ghost Ranch. With multiple trails to choose from, this hiking destination is perfect for both beginners and seasoned explorers.
4. Puez-Geisler Nature Park – South Tyrol, Italy
- Location: South Tyrol, Italy
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Unique Features: Pristine alpine meadows, stunning valleys, and idyllic mountain villages
Nestled between the Italian and Austrian border, Puez-Geisler Nature Park’s extensive trail network provides diverse hiking experiences amidst a UNESCO World Heritage Site dotted with charming alpine hamlets and farms.
5. Cape Wrath Trail – Scottish Highlands
- Location: Scottish Highlands, Scotland
- Difficulty: Difficult
- Unique Features: Remote landscapes and unsullied wilderness
Touted as one of the most challenging hikes in the UK, the Cape Wrath Trail stretches 200 miles (321 km) through rugged, remote terrain. With no official route, this hike is an immersive and unforgettable trek through Scottish wilderness and history.
6. Kungsleden – Swedish Lapland
- Location: Swedish Lapland, Sweden
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Unique Features: Pristine Arctic landscapes, wildlife, and Northern Lights
Often referred to as the ‘King’s Trail,’ Kungsleden is a 270-mile (435 km) trek through arctic landscapes and ancient forests. Hikers are treated to remarkable wildlife encounters, untamed meadows, and the enchanting display of the Northern Lights.
7. Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument – Utah, USA
- Location: Utah, USA
- Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
- Unique Features: Diverse landscapes of canyons, waterfalls, and rock formations
A treasure trove of outdoor adventure, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument features an extensive network of trails catering to all experience levels. Explorers can navigate slot canyons, luxuriate in desert oases, and marvel at prehistoric rock art.
8. Svalbard – Norwegian Arctic
- Location: Norwegian Arctic, Norway
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Unique Features: Adventurous hikes among glaciers and polar wildlife
Experience the thrilling yet peaceful majesty of the Arctic as you head into Norway’s polar bear country. Trek beneath the midnight sun or the Northern Lights, and explore pristine glaciers and rugged landscapes in the remote wilderness of Svalbard.
9. Drakensberg Mountains – South Africa and Lesotho
- Location: South Africa and Lesotho
- Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
- Unique Features: Stunning views of dramatic mountains, diverse wildlife, and ancient rock art
Rising high above the South African landscape, the Drakensberg Mountains offer a thrilling hiking escape. Across the border into Lesotho, explore rugged trails leading to breathtaking panoramas, diverse wildlife, and ancient San rock art, making this a truly remarkable destination.
10. Tongariro Alpine Crossing – New Zealand
- Location: North Island, New Zealand
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Unique Features: Majestic volcanic landscapes, emerald lakes, and diverse terrain
Located on New Zealand’s North Island, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing offers an unforgettable 12-mile (19.4 km) journey through dramatic volcanic landscapes. Winding across the slopes of an active volcano, this hike boasts striking emerald lakes, vast lava fields, and otherworldly terrain.
Final Thoughts
Whether you seek peaceful solitude or adrenaline-pumping adventure, these hidden gem hiking trails provide unique, unforgettable experiences for all skill levels. Explore the breathtaking beauty of these lesser-known paths and experience the wonder of the world’s most awe-inspiring landscapes.
