While an overnight stay in your local state park can be an unforgettable experience, it is worth considering the best backpacking trips worldwide. Whether it is enjoying cheese and espresso in the Swiss Alps, camping on the Great Wall of China, or hiking along the rugged coast of Kauai, the world offers breathtaking backcountry waiting to be explored. With proper planning, budgeting, and experience, it is completely achievable to cross off one or all of these incredible trips from your bucket list. So, take a look at these adventures and begin organizing your plans today!
Inca Trail, Peru
Including the Inca Trail on this list is essential. It is a unique hiking route that takes you to Machu Picchu, following in the footsteps of an impressive ancient civilization. Although many are excited for the final destination of Machu Picchu, there are many other sights to see during this 26-mile backpacking adventure. Along the way, you will cross Dead Woman’s Pass (don’t be frightened by the name) and pass through the terraces of Wiñay Wayna, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Andes mountains.
Torres del Paine W Trek, Chile
The backpacking trip through Torres del Paine National Park in the Patagonia region is highly desired by many because of its breathtaking mountains, enchanting blue lakes, and rare wildlife such as guanacos. Although not easy, the 43-mile W Trek offers the rewarding experience of waking up by a lakeside at the base of a snow-capped mountain.
Grand Canyon Rim-to-Rim, United States
Each year, Arizona’s Grand Canyon National Park attracts millions of visitors, although only a few of them dare to venture onto the challenging Rim-to-Rim trail. This trail plunges deep into the canyon and demands a similarly arduous ascent. The most favorable choice is commencing the journey on the North Rim using the North Kaibab Trail, and subsequently concluding it on the South Rim via the Bright Angel Trail. The entire backpacking expedition covers roughly 24 miles, making it an impressive achievement to boast about.
Panorama Ridge, Canada
Panorama Ridge stands out among the many trails in Western Canada due to its exceptional qualities. Spanning 19 miles, the journey commences at the Rubble Creek parking lot situated just south of Whistler Village. As you traverse through the awe-inspiring Garibaldi Provincial Park, you will be treated to uninterrupted views. Along the way, you will encounter fields filled with wildflowers, witness the gradual decay of a volcano, and come across a lake nestled in the high-alpine region, all while being enchanted by the captivating sights of Mount Price and Mount Garibaldi. Alternatively, for a shorter version of this hike, you can begin your adventure at Garibaldi Lake Campground.
El Camino de Santiago, Spain
El Camino de Santiago is an ancient pilgrimage route in Spain that takes pilgrims to the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela in Santiago. While there are numerous routes to the cathedral, one of the most picturesque options is Camino del Norte, which commences in San Sebastian and follows the northern coast before converging with Camino Primitivo, regarded as the original route.
It is important to remember that this backpacking trip, although beautiful, is not suitable for those who are easily discouraged. It is a spiritual journey that spans 500 miles and can take weeks or even months to complete. However, if desired, you can choose to only participate in a portion of the trip and then enjoy the remainder of your vacation at a luxurious resort, without facing any judgment.
The Great Wall of China, China
By staying with local villagers, you will have the opportunity to explore the wall independently. Similar to the Salkantay route to Machu Picchu, this hike along the Great Wall is less popular and more challenging than other well-known routes.
The Routeburn Track, New Zealand
The Routeburn Track, one of New Zealand’s nine Great Walks, offers breathtaking scenery, difficult terrain, and accommodation options in huts based on the duration of your trip.
Everest Base Camp, Nepal
Not only is hiking to Everest Basecamp an unforgettable adventure and cultural experience, but it also provides the opportunity to boast about it and share interesting anecdotes. Spending twelve days in the Himalayas will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on you.
The Tour du Mont Blanc, France, Italy, and Switzerland
If you have ever dreamt of not just witnessing, but completely immersing yourself in the beauty of the Alps, then now is your opportunity. The Tour du Mont Blanc path weaves its way through France, Italy, and Switzerland, encircling the tallest mountain in Western Europe: Mont Blanc, reaching an impressive altitude of 15,777 feet. While the trail is challenging, stretching over a distance of 105 miles, there are numerous accommodation options available, ranging from humble mountain huts to lavish hotels. Additionally, if necessary, public transportation can be utilized to reduce the length of the journey.
The West Highland Way, Scotland
The Scottish Highlands may not have grand mountains or towering peaks, but they compensate for it with their enchanting and ever-changing scenery that captivates every day spent on the trail.
The Na Pali Coast, Hawaii
One of the most remote and rugged islands of Hawaii is Kauai, where you can find the Kalalau Trail situated on its north shore. When people talk about this hike, they often liken it to the movie Jurassic Park. The trail takes you through a dense forest filled with vibrant ferns and tropical plants, as it follows along rocky cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean, ultimately leading you to a serene valley adorned with a sandy beach.
Mount Assiniboine, Canada
It is hard to find a better time than summertime, or any other time, in the Canadian Rockies. Explore the scenic beauty of alpine wildflowers, pristine crystal blue lakes, and breathtaking passes. However, ensure you have bear spray and avoid hiking solo for safety reasons.
Mount Kilimanjaro Lemosho Route, Tanzania
Who hasn’t imagined reaching the peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa at 19,341 feet? It is undoubtedly a challenging task, but ascending this inactive volcano is an experience worth sharing with loved ones or showcasing on Instagram. And if you’re planning to conquer Kilimanjaro, then choosing the stunning 41-mile Lemosho Route would be a wise choice since it has rightfully earned the title of the most picturesque route.
