Are you ready to explore the world on foot and experience unforgettable adventures? This guide to the top-rated 40 best backpacking trips showcases the most iconic and scenic routes across the globe. From rugged mountain trails to coastal paths, these best backpacking routes are perfect for every traveler seeking an authentic outdoor experience. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a curious beginner, discover the best backpacking trails that combine breathtaking nature, cultural richness, and thrilling challenges. Dive into detailed insights on key routes like the Inca Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and more. Pack your bags and get inspired to embark on your next epic journey with these must-try backpacking trips worldwide!

Top 25 Backpacking Trips Around the World:

01. Torres del Paine “O” Circuit – Patagonia, Chile:

MILEAGE: 85-MILE LOOP  |  LENGTH: 6- 11 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The “O” Circuit in Torres del Paine National Park is one of the most iconic multi-day trekking routes in South America. It completes a full loop around the Paine Massif, combining the famous W Trek plus the remote northern backcountry section.

What makes it legendary:

• Massive granite peaks and glaciers
• Remote wilderness far from crowds
• Famous viewpoints like the “W” route highlights
• Wildlife encounters (guanacos, condors)

This is a true Patagonian wilderness expedition with extreme scenery density.

02. John Muir Trail – California, USA:

MILEAGE: 211 MILES | LENGTH: 340 KM | DIFFICULTY: HARD

The John Muir Trail (JMT) is one of the most iconic long-distance hiking routes in the United States, running through the heart of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It passes through Yosemite National Park, Kings Canyon, and Sequoia National Park, offering some of the most dramatic alpine scenery in North America.

What makes this trail special is its combination of:

• Massive granite peaks
• High alpine lakes
• Glacier-carved valleys
• Remote wilderness sections

This is a true ultra-backpacking expedition, designed for experienced hikers who want raw nature, not tourist comfort.

03. Tour du Mont Blanc – France, Italy, Switzerland:

MILEAGE: 105 MILES | LENGTH: 170 KM | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO HARD

The Tour du Mont Blanc (TMB) is one of the most famous trekking circuits in the world, circling the massive Mont Blanc massif and passing through three countries: France, Italy, and Switzerland.

What makes this route special is the combination of:

• Alpine villages and mountain huts
• Glacier views and snow-capped peaks
• Well-marked, safe, and organized trails
• Cross-border cultural experience

Unlike remote wilderness treks like Patagonia or the Himalayas, TMB is a well-supported European backpacking route, perfect for hikers who want comfort + adventure balance.

04. Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit – Peru:

MILEAGE: 36 MI ROUNDTRIP (UP TO 81 MILES ROUNDTRIP) | LENGTH: 7-14 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS | ELEVATION GAIN: OVER 15000 FT

The Cordillera Huayhuash Circuit in Peru is widely considered one of the most beautiful—and demanding—backpacking routes on Earth.

Located deep in the Andes mountains, this trek takes you through extreme high-altitude passes, turquoise glacial lakes, and remote villages that feel untouched by modern tourism.

Unlike commercial trekking routes, Huayhuash is:

• Remote
• Physically intense
• High altitude (4,000m–5,000m+)
• Limited infrastructure

This is a true elite-level backpacking expedition for experienced hikers.

05. Laugavegur Trail – Iceland:

MILEAGE: 65 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 7-9 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 5500 FEET

The Laugavegur Trail is Iceland’s most famous multi-day trek, offering one of the most surreal landscapes in the world. Unlike traditional mountain trails, this route feels like walking through another planet.

Along the way, you’ll experience:

• Volcanic deserts
• Rainbow-colored rhyolite mountains
• Black sand valleys
• Hot springs and glacier rivers

This is one of the most visually diverse short backpacking routes in the world—perfect for hikers who want maximum scenery in minimum time.

06. Overland Track – Tasmania, Australia:

MILEAGE: 40 MILES | LENGTH: 65 KM | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Overland Track is Australia’s most famous multi-day backpacking route, located in the heart of Tasmania’s wilderness. It runs through ancient rainforests, alpine plateaus, glacier-carved valleys, and rugged mountain landscapes.

This trail is unique because it combines:

• Rich biodiversity (unique wildlife)
• Well-managed national park system
• Varied ecosystems in a short distance
• Comfortable hut infrastructure compared to wild trails

It is one of the most beginner-friendly long-distance hikes in the world while still delivering a true wilderness experience.

07. Annapurna Circuit – Nepal:

MILEAGE: 72 – 143 MILES ROUNDTRIP DEPENDING ON THE ROUTE  |  LENGTH: 9 – 21 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS

The Annapurna Circuit is one of the most legendary long-distance trekking routes in the world. Located in the Himalayas of Nepal, it takes you through deep valleys, alpine forests, ancient villages, and high mountain passes.

What makes this trek special is its extreme diversity:

• Subtropical forests at lower elevations
• Tibetan-influenced mountain villages
• Glacial rivers and suspension bridges
• High-altitude deserts near the Tibetan plateau

This is a full cultural + natural immersion trek, not just a hiking route.

08. The Drakensberg Traverse – South Africa:

MILEAGE: 136 MILES | LENGTH: 220 KM | DIFFICULTY: VERY HARD

The Drakensberg Traverse is one of Africa’s most dramatic long-distance hiking routes, stretching along the massive escarpment of the Drakensberg Mountains between South Africa and Lesotho.

This route is not a single fixed trail—it’s a wild traverse, meaning hikers follow ridgelines, valleys, and remote mountain passes.

What makes it unique:

• Towering basalt cliffs
• Endless escarpment views
• Remote wilderness with minimal crowds
• Ancient rock art sites from the San people

This is one of the most underrated backpacking routes in the world.

09. The Alta Via 1 – Dolomites, Italy:

MILEAGE: 100 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 11 – 14 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 39,000 FT

The Alta Via 1 is the most famous long-distance hiking route in the Dolomites, Italy. It runs through dramatic limestone peaks, alpine meadows, crystal-clear lakes, and historic mountain refuges.

Unlike remote wilderness treks, this route is:

• Well-marked and safe
• Supported by mountain huts (rifugios)
• Extremely scenic and accessible

It is considered one of the best first multi-day alpine treks in Europe.

10. The Wonderland Trail – Washington, USA:

MILEAGE: 93 MILES | LENGTH: 150 KM | DIFFICULTY: HARD

The Wonderland Trail is one of the most iconic loop hikes in the United States, circling the massive Mount Rainier.

This trail is famous for its extreme variety of landscapes:

• Glaciers and snowfields
• Dense old-growth forests
• Alpine meadows filled with wildflowers
• River valleys and suspension bridges

Unlike many long-distance hikes, the Wonderland Trail is a true loop route around a single giant mountain, making it one of the most visually diverse backpacking experiences in North America.

11. The West Coast Trail – British Columbia, Canada:

MILEAGE: 46.5 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 5-8 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 5000 – 6000 FT

The West Coast Trail is one of the most legendary coastal backpacking routes in the world. Located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, it runs through rugged Pacific coastline, dense rainforest, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliff sections.

Originally created as a rescue route for shipwreck survivors, it is now a world-class hiking trail known for its:

• Rope ladders and wooden boardwalks
• Coastal tidal crossings
• Rainforest and ocean combination
• Extreme weather conditions

This is not a casual hike—it is a technical wilderness backpacking experience.

12. The Teton Crest Trail – Wyoming, USA:

MILEAGE: 40 MILES | LENGTH: 64 KM | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO HARD

The Teton Crest Trail is one of the most visually stunning alpine backpacking routes in the United States. It runs along the high ridgeline of the Teton Range, offering nonstop views of jagged peaks, alpine lakes, glaciers, and deep valleys.

What makes this trail exceptional is:

• Constant panoramic mountain views
• High-alpine ridge walking
• Crystal-clear lakes and meadows
• Relatively short distance with extreme scenery density

This is a high-reward, low-mileage alpine trek, perfect for experienced hikers who want maximum beauty in minimum time.

13. The GR20 – Corsica, France:

MILEAGE: 112 MILES | LENGTH: 180 KM | DIFFICULTY: VERY HARD

The GR20 is widely considered the toughest long-distance hiking trail in Europe. It crosses the mountainous spine of Corsica from north to south, combining jagged granite peaks, technical climbs, and dramatic alpine scenery.

Unlike other European trails, the GR20 is:

• Physically demanding and technical
• Full of steep ascents and descents
• Less about comfort, more about endurance
• Wild, rugged, and unpredictable

This is a true test of fitness, skill, and mental resilience.

14. The Kalalau Trail – Kauai, Hawaii, USA:

MILEAGE: 22 MI ROUNDTRIP | LENGTH: 3 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE | ELEVATION GAIN: 800 FT

The Kalalau Trail is one of the most breathtaking coastal backpacking routes in the world. Located along the Nā Pali Coast of Kauai, it combines dramatic cliffs, jungle valleys, waterfalls, and remote beaches—all with direct views of the Pacific Ocean.

What makes this trail special:

• Ocean cliffside hiking
• Tropical rainforest terrain
• Remote beach camping at Kalalau Beach
• Extreme weather + slippery trails

This is not a casual hike—it is a technical, high-risk coastal wilderness trek.

15. The Inca Trail – Peru:

MILEAGE: 26 MILES | LENGTH: 42 KM | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO HARD

The Inca Trail is one of the most iconic trekking routes on Earth, leading directly to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu. It combines mountain scenery, cloud forests, Incan ruins, and centuries-old stone pathways.

What makes this trail unique:

• Historic Inca civilization route
• Archaeological sites along the trail
• Cloud forest ecosystems
• Final sunrise entry to Machu Picchu

This is not just a hike—it is a journey through history and culture.

16. The Long Range Traverse – Newfoundland, Canada:

MILEAGE: 22 MI POINT-TO-POINT | LENGTH: 4-5 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS (& REQUIRES NAVIGATION SKILLS) | ELEVATION GAIN: 2300 FT

The Long Range Traverse is one of the most remote and demanding backcountry hikes in Canada. Located inside Gros Morne National Park, it takes you deep into a vast wilderness of fjords, barren plateaus, and untouched Arctic-like terrain.

Unlike marked hiking trails, this is a true wilderness navigation route—meaning there are:

• No clear trails in many sections
• No facilities or shelters
• No marked direction posts

What makes it special:

• Absolute isolation
• Glacier-carved fjord landscapes
• Rugged tundra-like terrain
• Pure navigation-based adventure

This is one of the most serious backpacking experiences in North America.

17. The Dusky Track – Fiordland, New Zealand:

MILEAGE: 53 MILES | LENGTH: 84 KM | DIFFICULTY: VERY HARD

The Dusky Track is one of the most remote, wettest, and physically demanding hikes in New Zealand. Located deep within Fiordland National Park, it takes hikers through dense rainforest, alpine saddles, swampy valleys, and rugged mountain passes.

This is not a casual trekking route—it is a true expedition-style wilderness experience.

What makes it special:

• Extremely remote terrain
• Constant rain and wet conditions
• River crossings and swamp navigation
• Alpine climbs + dense rainforest sections

This trail is often described as one of the most physically brutal hikes in the Southern Hemisphere.

18. The Snowman Trek – Bhutan:

MILEAGE: 200 MILES | LENGTH: 321 KM | DIFFICULTY: EXTREMELY HARD

The Snowman Trek is widely regarded as one of the hardest and most remote trekking routes on Earth. Located in the high Himalayas of Bhutan, it crosses multiple mountain passes above 5,000 meters, remote valleys, and isolated villages that rarely see outsiders.

What makes it legendary:

• Extremely high altitude (multiple 5,000m+ passes)
• Long duration (nearly a month)
• Harsh weather and unpredictable snow conditions
• Extreme isolation—limited rescue access

This is not a trekking holiday. It is a high-altitude expedition reserved for elite hikers.

19. The Zion Traverse – Utah, USA:

MILEAGE: 47 MILES | LENGTH: 76 KM | DIFFICULTY: HARD

The Zion Traverse is one of the most scenic desert backpacking routes in the United States, crossing the full length of Zion National Park from the high plateaus in the north to the deep canyon landscapes in the south.

What makes this trail special:

• Massive sandstone cliffs and canyons
• High desert plateaus and forest sections
• Remote wilderness inside a world-famous park
• Dramatic elevation changes in short distance

This is a true American Southwest backpacking classic, combining desert beauty with alpine-like elevation transitions.

20. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) – USA:

MILEAGE: 2,653 MILES | LENGTH: 4,270 KM | DIFFICULTY: VERY HARD

The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) is one of the most famous long-distance hiking routes in the world, stretching from the Mexican border in California to the Canadian border in Washington.

It passes through three major landscapes:

• Desert sections in Southern California
• High alpine terrain in the Sierra Nevada
• Forests and volcanic landscapes in Oregon and Washington

This is not just a hike—it is a full continental-scale endurance expedition.

21. The Great Himalaya Trail – Nepal:

MILEAGE: 1,056 MILES (APPROX.) | LENGTH: 1,700 KM | DIFFICULTY: EXTREMELY HARD

The Great Himalaya Trail (GHT) is one of the most ambitious trekking routes on Earth. It spans the entire length of Nepal, crossing remote mountain regions, high passes, isolated villages, and multiple climate zones—from subtropical valleys to glacial Himalayan peaks.

Unlike standard treks, the GHT is not a single fixed trail. It is a network of routes that connect high-altitude passes and remote regions across the Himalayas.

What makes it legendary:

• Entire-country crossing of Nepal
• Extreme altitude and weather variation
• Remote cultural immersion
• Multi-month expedition scale

This is not a trek—it is a life-scale endurance journey.

22. The Lycian Way – Turkey: 

MILEAGE: 335 MILES | LENGTH: 540 KM | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO HARD

The Lycian Way is one of the most beautiful coastal long-distance hiking routes in the world, stretching along Turkey’s southwestern Mediterranean coastline. It combines ancient ruins, mountain paths, pine forests, and turquoise sea views.

What makes it special:

• Coastal cliffside hiking with sea views
• Ancient Lycian civilization ruins
• Traditional Turkish villages
• Mediterranean beaches and coves

This is a perfect blend of culture, history, and coastal adventure.

23. The Bibbulmun Track – Western Australia:

MILEAGE: 623 MILES | LENGTH: 1,003 KM | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Bibbulmun Track is one of the world’s great long-distance walking trails, stretching through the forests, coastal plains, and wilderness of southwestern Australia. It runs from Kalamunda (near Perth) all the way to Albany.

What makes it special:

• One of the longest continuous walking trails in Australia
• Stunning eucalyptus forests and wildflower regions
• Coastal cliffs, rivers, and remote wilderness sections
• Well-supported hut system for thru-hikers

This is a true long-distance wilderness journey with strong infrastructure support, making it accessible for extended trekking.

24. The High Sierra Trail – California, USA:

MILEAGE: 195 MILES  |  LENGTH: 15 – 17 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: EXTREMELY STRENUOUS

The High Sierra Trail is one of the most demanding and scenic trans-Sierra routes in the United States. It crosses deep granite valleys, high alpine passes, and some of the most dramatic wilderness in California’s Sierra Nevada.

What makes it special:

• Continuous high alpine terrain across the Sierra Nevada
• Massive elevation changes and long remote sections
• Glacier-carved valleys and granite landscapes
• End-to-end wilderness experience through Sequoia National Park

This is a true expedition-style thru-hike through classic American alpine wilderness.

25. Kungsleden Trail, Sweden:

MILEAGE: 270 MILES  |  LENGTH: ABOUT A MONTH FOR THE WHOLE TRAIL, OR 3 – 10 DAY SEGMENTS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Kungsleden (“King’s Trail”) is Sweden’s most famous long-distance hiking route, stretching through the vast Arctic wilderness of Swedish Lapland. It passes glaciers, mountain valleys, birch forests, and crystal-clear rivers.

What makes it legendary:

• One of the best-managed long-distance trails in Europe
• Midnight sun in summer and northern lights in autumn
• Remote Arctic wilderness with hut-to-hut system
• Flexible section hiking options for all levels

This is a perfect balance of wilderness adventure and accessible infrastructure.

26. Rim to Rim, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA:

MILEAGE: 24 MI POINT-TO-POINT | LENGTH: 3-4 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS | ELEVATION: 5000 FT GAIN, 5500 FT LOSS

The Rim to Rim hike is one of the most iconic backpacking challenges in the world. It crosses the entire Grand Canyon from the North Rim to the South Rim, descending into the canyon and climbing back out through extreme heat, elevation change, and desert terrain.

What makes it special:

• One of the most famous canyon crossings on Earth
• Massive elevation change in a short distance
• Extreme temperature variation (snow to desert heat)
• Iconic geological layers and Colorado River crossing

This is a bucket-list endurance hike, not a casual trek.

27. Coyote Gulch, Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, Utah, USA:

MILEAGE: 26 MI POINT-TO-POINT | LENGTH: 3-4 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: MODERATE | ELEVATION GAIN: 1600 FT

Coyote Gulch is one of the most stunning slot canyon backpacking routes in the American Southwest. It features flowing sandstone corridors, natural arches, hidden waterfalls, and desert river ecosystems.

What makes it legendary:

• Massive red sandstone canyon walls
• Natural bridges and arches
• Desert oasis landscapes with flowing water
• Remote, immersive canyon camping experience

This is a true classic desert backpacking route with high visual reward and relatively moderate difficulty.

28. Copper Ridge Loop, North Cascades National Park, Washington, USA:

MILEAGE: 34 MILES ROUNDTRIPS | LENGTH: 4-5 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS | ELEVATION GAIN: 8600 FT

The Copper Ridge Loop is one of the most scenic backcountry routes in the North Cascades, often called the “American Alps” for their rugged, glacier-carved landscapes.

What makes it legendary:

• Massive glacier views and jagged peaks
• Wildflower-filled alpine meadows
• Remote wilderness with limited crowds
• Stunning ridge walking above deep valleys

This is a classic Pacific Northwest alpine backpacking loop with high visual reward and serious elevation gain.

29. Kamikochi-Yari-Hotaka Circuit, Northern Japanese Alps, Japan:

MILEAGE: 21 MI ROUNDTRIP | LENGTH: 3 DAYS | DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS | ELEVATION GAIN: 5500 FT

The Kamikochi–Yari–Hotaka Circuit is one of the most dramatic alpine hikes in Japan, combining sharp ridgelines, volcanic peaks, and deep valley approaches in the Northern Japanese Alps.

What makes it special:

• Iconic pyramid-shaped Mount Yari (“Japan’s Matterhorn”)
• Rugged ridgeline traversal between major peaks
• Well-maintained mountain hut system
• Stunning contrast of forest valleys and alpine summits

This is a short but highly intense alpine circuit with serious elevation gain and exposure.

30. Kepler Track, South Island, New Zealand:

MILEAGE: 37.3 MILES ROUNDTRIP  |  LENGTH: 3-4 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE  |  ELEVATION GAIN: AROUND 3600 FT

The Kepler Track is one of New Zealand’s most iconic “Great Walks,” offering a perfect mix of alpine ridgelines, lake views, and lush rainforest. It circles through Fiordland National Park, one of the most dramatic wilderness regions in the world.

What makes it special:

• Alpine ridge walking with 360° mountain views
• Ancient rainforest valleys and waterfalls
• Crystal-clear lakes and glacial landscapes
• Well-maintained “Great Walk” infrastructure

This is a perfect multi-day trek for scenic wilderness immersion with strong safety and comfort support.

31. Toubkal Circuit, Morocco:

MILEAGE: 37.3 MILES ROUNDTRIP (OR 44.7 MI WITH A PEAK ASCENT)  |  LENGTH: 4-6 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Toubkal Circuit is one of the most iconic trekking routes in North Africa, leading into the High Atlas Mountains and offering the chance to summit Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in the region.

What makes it special:

• Quick access from Marrakech
• High-altitude trekking without technical climbing
• Stunning Berber villages and culture
• Optional summit of North Africa’s highest peak

This is a perfect entry-level alpine expedition with strong cultural immersion.

32. Dana to Petra on the Jordan Trail, Dana Biosphere Reserve, Jordan:

MILEAGE: 46.5 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 4-6 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Dana to Petra section of the Jordan Trail is one of the most iconic desert hikes in the Middle East. It connects the wild mountain landscapes of the Dana Biosphere Reserve with the ancient Nabataean city of Petra.

What makes it legendary:

• Dramatic desert canyon landscapes
• Ancient caravan and Bedouin routes
• Overnight camping under desert skies
• Direct approach to one of the New Seven Wonders

This is a short but emotionally powerful desert trekking journey combining nature, history, and culture.

33. Arthur Range Traverse, Tasmania, Australia:

MILEAGE: 48.5 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 10 – 14 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: EXTREMELY STRENUOUS  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 10,200 FT

The Arthur Range Traverse is one of the most remote and technically challenging wilderness hikes in Tasmania. It runs through the rugged Western Arthur Range, deep within the wild landscapes of southwest Tasmania.

What makes it legendary:

• Extremely rough, exposed ridge walking
• Constant scrambling over jagged quartzite peaks
• Unpredictable Tasmanian weather (rain, wind, fog)
• Very limited escape routes once on the ridge

This is a serious alpine-style wilderness traverse, not a standard hiking trail.

34. Wind River High Route, Wyoming, USA:

MILEAGE: 79 – 100 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 7-18 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: EXTREMELY STRENUOUS  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 20,000 – 30,000 FT

The Wind River High Route is one of the most demanding alpine traverses in the United States. It runs through the heart of the Wind River Range, often staying above tree line and requiring constant navigation through granite basins, glacier-carved valleys, and high mountain passes.

What makes it special:

• Mostly off-trail navigation (not a marked path)
• Continuous high-alpine terrain
• Remote wilderness with limited rescue access
• Glacier basins and knife-edge passes

This is a true backcountry expedition route for experienced mountaineers, not a traditional hiking trail.

35. Arctic Circle Trail, Greenland:

MILEAGE: 102 MILES  |  LENGTH: 7 – 10 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Arctic Circle Trail is one of the most remote long-distance hiking routes in the world, stretching across the Arctic tundra of western Greenland from Kangerlussuaq to Sisimiut.

What makes it legendary:

• True Arctic wilderness (entirely above the Arctic Circle)
• No towns or resupply points for the entire route
• Vast tundra landscapes with lakes, rivers, and valleys
• Extreme solitude with very low annual foot traffic

Despite being “moderate” in terrain, it is a serious expedition due to isolation and self-sufficiency requirements.

36. Walker’s Haute Route, French and Swiss Alps:

MILEAGE: 125 MILES  |  LENGTH: 9 – 12 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE TO STRENUOUS  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 39,000 FT

Walker’s Haute Route is one of the most spectacular alpine trekking routes in the world, connecting Chamonix in France to Zermatt in Switzerland. It passes through dramatic high mountain passes, glacier valleys, and iconic alpine villages.

What makes it legendary:

• Continuous high-alpine scenery
• Views of Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn
• Well-marked but physically demanding trail
• Combination of France + Switzerland landscapes

This is a classic European alpine expedition with world-class scenery every day.

37. Drakensberg Grand Traverse, South Africa:

MILEAGE: 140 MILES POINT-TO-POINT  |  LENGTH: 10 – 15 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS & TECHNICALLY CHALLENGING  |  ELEVATION GAIN: 30,000 FT

The Drakensberg Grand Traverse is one of the most demanding and remote mountain expeditions in Africa. It follows the dramatic escarpment of the Drakensberg range along the border of South Africa and Lesotho, with continuous ridge walking, steep ascents, and unmarked navigation sections.

What makes it legendary:

• Continuous ridge-line navigation (no formal trail in many sections)
• High exposure to weather changes and storms
• Long distances between safe exit points
• Wild, untouched mountain scenery

This is a true self-supported alpine expedition, not a marked hiking trail.

38. Camino Primitivo, Spain: 

MILEAGE: 200 MILES  |  LENGTH: 14 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: MODERATE

The Camino Primitivo is the oldest route of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage network. It begins in Oviedo and winds through the rugged mountains of northern Spain before merging with the main Camino Francés route toward Santiago de Compostela.

What makes it unique:

• Oldest historical Camino route
• Mountain + rural village landscapes
• Less crowded than other Camino routes
• Deep cultural and spiritual heritage

This is a quiet, authentic pilgrimage experience with more solitude and elevation than most Camino paths.

39. Great Divide Trail, Canadian Rockies:

MILEAGE: 746 MILES  |  LENGTH: 40 – 50 DAYS  |  DIFFICULTY: STRENUOUS

The Great Divide Trail (GDT) is one of the most remote and challenging long-distance hikes in North America. It follows the spine of the Canadian Rockies along the Continental Divide, crossing through multiple national and provincial parks.

What makes it legendary:

• Extreme wilderness with long resupply gaps
• Glacier-fed valleys and alpine passes
• Limited signage and route-finding challenges
• Wildlife-rich but highly remote terrain

This is a true expedition trail, not a casual backpacking route.

40. Via Dinarica, Balkans:

MILEAGE: 1200 MILES  |  DIFFICULTY: RANGES FROM MODERATE TO EXTREMELY STRENUOUS

The Via Dinarica is one of Europe’s most underrated long-distance hiking networks, stretching across the Dinaric Alps through Slovenia, Croatia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro, Albania, and Kosovo.

Unlike more famous Alpine routes, this trail offers:

• Raw, less-touristed wilderness
• Dramatic limestone mountains
• Traditional Balkan villages
• Deep cultural and historical diversity

It is a hidden mega-trail of Europe, combining nature, culture, and endurance in one continuous route.

Whether you’re chasing epic mountain vistas, remote wilderness, or vibrant cultural experiences, these top-rated backpacking trips offer something for every adventurer. Exploring these best backpacking routes around the world not only challenges your limits but also rewards you with memories that last a lifetime. So lace up your boots, plan your itinerary, and set off on a journey that will transform the way you see the world. Your next great adventure awaits on one of these incredible backpacking trips — where every step brings a new story and breathtaking discovery.