23 Best Hiking Trails to Explore During Summer

Summer is the perfect time to lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails. With the sun shining and nature in full bloom, there’s no better season for outdoor exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, these trails offer something for everyone. Get ready to discover some of the best hiking spots that summer has to offer.

Appalachian Trail, USA

Stretching over 3,500 kilometers (2,190 miles), the Appalachian Trail is one of the longest hiking-only trails in the world. The trail winds through 14 states, from Georgia to Maine, offering diverse landscapes, including dense forests, mountain peaks, and serene valleys. Reaching heights of up to 2,037 meters above sea level (masl) at Clingmans Dome, it’s a challenge even for seasoned hikers. Summer is a popular time to explore this iconic trail, with lush greenery and warmer temperatures.

Tour du Mont Blanc, France/Italy/Switzerland

The Tour du Mont Blanc is a 170-kilometer (105-mile) trail that circles the Mont Blanc Massif, crossing through France, Italy, and Switzerland. The route offers breathtaking alpine scenery, with elevations reaching up to 2,665 masl at Col des Fours. It’s a well-marked trail that can be completed in 7-11 days, making it a favorite among international hikers. During summer, the trail is alive with wildflowers and clear skies, perfect for panoramic views.

Inca Trail, Peru

The Inca Trail is a 42-kilometer (26-mile) trek leading to the ancient city of Machu Picchu, set at an elevation of 2,430 masl. This historic trail takes you through lush cloud forests, Andean highlands, and Incan ruins, offering a unique cultural and natural experience. The highest point on the trail, Dead Woman’s Pass, reaches 4,215 masl, challenging hikers with its steep ascents. Summer, especially June to August, is the best time to hike, with dry weather and clear skies.

Pacific Crest Trail, USA

The Pacific Crest Trail runs for an impressive 4,270 kilometers (2,653 miles) from Mexico to Canada, traversing diverse landscapes like deserts, forests, and mountain ranges. The trail reaches its highest point at Forester Pass, standing at 4,009 masl. Summer is an ideal time to explore this trail, especially in the Sierra Nevada, where snowmelt creates stunning alpine lakes and streams. Whether you hike a section or tackle the entire trail, the PCT offers an unforgettable adventure.

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

The Laugavegur Trail is a 55-kilometer (34-mile) trek through Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes, including volcanic deserts, hot springs, and glacial rivers. The trail’s highest point is at Hrafntinnusker, at around 1,050 masl, offering panoramic views of the surrounding highlands. Typically completed in 4 days, this trail is best explored in the summer when the weather is milder, and the midnight sun lights up the landscape. It’s a trail that showcases Iceland’s raw beauty at every turn.

Overland Track, Australia

Tasmania’s Overland Track is a 65-kilometer (40-mile) journey through the pristine wilderness of Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park. The trail reaches an elevation of 1,545 masl at Cradle Mountain, providing stunning views of rugged terrain and ancient rainforests. Summer, from December to February, is the best time to hike, with longer days and warmer temperatures. This trail offers an immersive experience in one of Australia’s most beautiful natural landscapes.

John Muir Trail, USA

The John Muir Trail spans 340 kilometers (211 miles) through California’s Sierra Nevada, from Yosemite Valley to Mount Whitney. Reaching an elevation of 4,421 masl at Mount Whitney, the trail offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the United States, including alpine meadows, granite peaks, and crystal-clear lakes. Summer is the prime hiking season, with the snow melted and the wildflowers in full bloom. The trail is a tribute to the naturalist John Muir, offering serenity and solitude in the wilderness.

Haute Route, France/Switzerland

The Haute Route is a 180-kilometer (112-mile) trek from Chamonix, France, to Zermatt, Switzerland, crossing 11 mountain passes and reaching a height of 2,987 masl at the Col de Riedmatten. The trail offers a challenging yet rewarding experience with views of iconic peaks like Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. It typically takes 10-12 days to complete, making summer the ideal time for good weather and clear paths. This trail is a must-do for those seeking a classic alpine adventure.

West Coast Trail, Canada

Vancouver Island’s West Coast Trail is a 75-kilometer (47-mile) hike along the rugged coastline of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. The trail includes challenging terrain, from slippery boardwalks to steep ladders, and reaches up to 200 masl at various points. It’s typically completed in 5-7 days, with summer offering the best conditions for this coastal trek. The trail is famous for its wildlife, including seals, whales, and bald eagles, making it a memorable summer adventure.

GR20, Corsica, France

The GR20 is a 180-kilometer (112-mile) trail that traverses the mountainous spine of Corsica, often regarded as one of the toughest long-distance hikes in Europe. The trail reaches its highest point at Monte Cinto, standing at 2,706 masl, with breathtaking views over the island. Summer is the best time to hike, with warm weather and extended daylight hours allowing for safer navigation of its rocky paths. The GR20 offers an exhilarating mix of rugged peaks, lush valleys, and remote villages.

Milford Track, New Zealand

Milford Track is a 53-kilometer (33-mile) trail that takes you through New Zealand’s Fiordland National Park, ending at the stunning Milford Sound. The track’s highest point is the Mackinnon Pass at 1,154 masl, offering panoramic views of the surrounding fjords and mountains. It’s a 4-day hike, best completed in the summer months from November to April, when the weather is milder and the days are longer. The track is often referred to as “the finest walk in the world” for its incredible natural beauty.

Torres del Paine Circuit, Chile

The Torres del Paine Circuit, also known as the “O” Circuit, is a 130-kilometer (81-mile) trail that loops around the Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia. The trail’s highest point is the John Gardner Pass at 1,241 masl, offering stunning views of the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. It typically takes 8-10 days to complete, with the summer months of December to February providing the best weather for this challenging trek. The circuit offers a mix of towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and expansive glaciers.

Kalalau Trail, USA

The Kalalau Trail is an 18-kilometer (11-mile) hike along the Na Pali Coast of Kauai, Hawaii, leading to the secluded Kalalau Beach. The trail reaches its highest point at approximately 1,220 masl, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and dramatic coastal cliffs. It’s a challenging trek, often completed in 2 days, with summer providing the most reliable weather conditions. The trail’s stunning scenery and remote location make it a true paradise for adventurous hikers.

Cinque Terre Trails, Italy

The Cinque Terre Trails connect five picturesque villages along the Ligurian coast of Italy, with a total distance of about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles). The trails offer moderate elevation, reaching up to 200 masl, and are known for their stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and terraced vineyards. These trails can be explored in a day, with summer being the ideal time to enjoy the vibrant colors and warm weather. The combination of cultural charm and natural beauty makes this a unique hiking experience.

Dolomites Alta Via 1, Italy

The Alta Via 1 is a 120-kilometer (75-mile) trail through the Dolomites, offering a mix of rugged peaks, serene valleys, and historic refuges. The trail’s highest point is around 2,752 masl at Lagazuoi, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding mountain landscape. The trail can be completed in 10-12 days, with summer offering the best conditions for this alpine adventure. The Dolomites’ dramatic cliffs and vibrant meadows make this a must-hike trail for any outdoor enthusiast.

Zion Narrows, USA

The Zion Narrows is a unique 26-kilometer (16-mile) hike through a slot canyon in Zion National Park, Utah. The trail involves wading through the Virgin River, with canyon walls towering up to 600 meters (1,970 feet) above. The highest elevation point is around 1,840 masl, making this a refreshing hike during the hot summer months. The narrow passages and stunning rock formations create a surreal and unforgettable hiking experience.

Camino de Santiago, Spain

The Camino de Santiago is a historic pilgrimage route that spans around 800 kilometers (500 miles) across northern Spain, ending at the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. The route’s highest point is at Cruz de Ferro, standing at 1,504 masl, where pilgrims leave stones as a symbol of their journey. While it can take over a month to complete the entire route, summer is the most popular time to walk, with pleasant weather and vibrant communities along the way. The Camino offers a unique blend of spiritual, cultural, and natural experiences.

Salkantay Trek, Peru

The Salkantay Trek is an alternative to the Inca Trail, covering 74 kilometers (46 miles) through the Andes to Machu Picchu. The trek’s highest point is Salkantay Pass at 4,600 masl, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. This 5-day hike is best done in the summer months, from May to September, when the weather is dry and clear. The trail offers a diverse range of ecosystems, from cloud forests to high-altitude deserts.

Kungsleden, Sweden

The Kungsleden, or “King’s Trail,” is a 440-kilometer (273-mile) hike through the remote wilderness of northern Sweden. The trail reaches its highest point at Tjäktja Pass, standing at 1,150 masl, offering views of the surrounding Arctic landscape. Summer is the best time to hike, with the midnight sun providing extended daylight hours for exploring. The trail takes you through vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional Sami villages, offering a true wilderness experience.

Snowman Trek, Bhutan

The Snowman Trek is one of the most challenging hikes in the world, covering 200 kilometers (124 miles) through the high Himalayas of Bhutan. The trail’s highest point is Rinchen Zoe La, standing at 5,320 masl, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and remote valleys. This 24-day trek is best completed in the summer months, from June to September, when the weather is more stable. The Snowman Trek offers a rare glimpse into Bhutan’s pristine wilderness and traditional culture.

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

The Annapurna Circuit is a 160-kilometer (99-mile) trek that takes you around the Annapurna Massif, reaching an altitude of 5,416 masl at Thorong La Pass. The trail offers a mix of lush subtropical forests, alpine meadows, and arid deserts, with stunning views of some of the world’s highest peaks. Summer, particularly from September to November, is a great time to hike, with clear skies and mild temperatures. The Annapurna Circuit is a classic Himalayan trek that offers both natural beauty and cultural richness.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

Mount Kilimanjaro is the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, standing at 5,895 masl. The trek to the summit covers approximately 62 kilometers (38.5 miles) and takes about 5-9 days to complete. Summer, from June to October, is the best time to attempt the climb, with dry weather and clear skies providing optimal conditions. The diverse landscapes, from tropical forests to arctic deserts, make this trek a truly unique experience.

Teton Crest Trail, USA

The Teton Crest Trail is a 64-kilometer (40-mile) hike through Grand Teton National Park, offering stunning views of the Teton Range. The trail reaches its highest point at Paintbrush Divide, standing at 3,314 masl, providing panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. It’s typically completed in 4-6 days, with summer offering the best weather for this high-altitude trek. The trail’s dramatic scenery, including alpine lakes and wildflower meadows, makes it a favorite among backpackers.

This article originally appeared on UnifyCosmos.

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